Threadfin Hawkfish - Medium

The Threadfin Hawkfishes' body is white with reddish-brown markings and patches. The light-rimmed dark patch behind each eye and the lack of markings on its tail help to identify it. Unlike most other fish, Hawkfish lack a swim bladder and will sink if they stop swimming. As a result, they perch on the bottom of the tank or on rockwork, "swooping" on prey, hence the name. Once mature, adults can grow to a length of 5 inches (12 centimetres).

The Threadfin Hawkfish is a protogynous hermaphrodite and a pelagic spawner. Social groups usually consist of a male and a small harem of females. If a male isn't present in the group, the female can change sex and take the role of the male when required.

This species is widely distributed and occasionally found in the western Indian Ocean. It is more common around Sumatra, the Solomon Islands, the Philippines, Japan, and Australia. It usually inhabits coastal reefs, around rocky or coral areas, between 5-40 metres.

Tank Recommendations for your Threadfin Hawkfish

Threadfin Hawkfish should be house in a tank that holds at least 30 gallons (114 litres) capacity.

They can be kept in reef or fish-only aquariums, although in a reef tank they will need monitoring. A suitable tank requires a variety of rocky places for hiding and shelter.

Hawkfish also need rocky areas for perching, where they will watch out for food or observe other fish.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Threadfin Hawkfish are semi-aggressive. They should be kept with fish of a similar temperament.

They may prey on crustaceans or other small fish in a reef environment.

Usually Compatible

Suitable tank buddies include Tangs, Angelfish, Tuskfish, and Damselfish.

Sometime Compatible

Caution is advised with smaller fish and invertebrates as they may get eaten. Wrasse, Boxfish, Grunts, and Triggerfish should also be monitored.

Rarely Compatible

Docile fish & slow movers are unsuitable. So, avoid Gobies, Anthias, Fairy Wrasse, and Seahorses. Conspecifics aren't advised, especially if they are bigger and more aggressive. Large predators like Eels, Frogfish, Groupers, Sharks should also be avoided.

Feeding your Threadfin Hawkfish

The Threadfin Hawkfish is carnivorous. It will consume a variety of fresh and frozen meaty foods. Chopped seafood, clams and crab flesh are all suitable products. Feeding should take place twice a day.