Freckled Hawkfish

Freckled Hawkfish (Paracirrhites forsteri) is an aggressive, predatory species that is reef-safe with caution, making it a challenging choice for mixed reef systems as it poses a threat to small fish and invertebrates while focusing primarily on ambush hunting of crustaceans. This elegant hawkfish displays a highly variable body coloration with a broad dark band on the posterior half and lighter anterior sections, but features prominent red or black speckles (freckles) on the face that give it its common name, complemented by the characteristic stiff pectoral fins used for tireless perching on rockwork. The mottled body coloration with striking facial pattern and distinctive perching behavior combined with diligent hunting behavior make it both a fascinating centerpiece and highly effective control agent for undesirable benthic inverts. It can reach about 6–9 inches in adult size. Best kept in tanks of at least 75 gallons or more due to their predatory nature and need for territory, with abundant live rock for perches and hiding opportunities, stable water parameters, and careful handling around their stiff, non-venomous pectoral fin supports, though they're generally very personable and often develop engaging personalities with their owners. Its diet should focus heavily on meaty foods—frozen mysis shrimp, chopped clam, krill, quality carnivore pellets—with occasional supplements like brine shrimp, as this primarily carnivorous species requires constant access to protein-rich animal matter for optimal health and will provide excellent nuisance organism control while maintaining their brilliant, distinctive markings. International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.