Arc Eye Hawkfish

The Arc Eye Hawkfish (Paracirrhites arcatus) is a beautiful and unique marine fish species that is popular in the aquarium hobby. Here's a care guide to help you provide the best environment for your Arc Eye Hawkfish:

Tank Setup:

1. Tank Size:

   • A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is suitable for a single Arc Eye Hawkfish. Larger tanks are recommended for multiple individuals or if kept in a community setting.

2. Water Parameters:

   • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C).

   • pH: 8.1-8.4.

   • Salinity: 1.020-1.025.

3. Filtration:

   • Use a quality protein skimmer and a reliable filtration system.

   • Maintain good water circulation to ensure oxygenation and waste removal.

4. Substrate and Decor:

   • Provide a substrate of live sand or crushed coral.

   • Include live rock structures for hiding places and to create territories.

   • Arc Eye Hawkfish enjoy perching on coral heads or rocks, so provide suitable surfaces for them to perch.

Diet:

1. Carnivorous Diet:

   • Feed a varied diet that includes high-quality marine flake or pellet food.

   • Supplement with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, chopped seafood, and small marine worms.

2. Feeding Schedule:

   • Feed small amounts multiple times a day. Hawkfish are known for being opportunistic feeders and enjoy hunting for food.

Tankmates:

1. Compatibility:

   • Arc Eye Hawkfish can be territorial and may exhibit aggression towards other hawkfish or similar-shaped fish.

   • They are generally reef-safe but may prey on small shrimp and small fish.

   • Choose tankmates carefully to avoid overly aggressive or territorial species.

Health and Maintenance:

1. Observation:

   • Regularly observe the hawkfish for signs of illness, stress, or aggression.

   • Look out for any changes in behavior or appearance.

2. Quarantine:

   • Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank to prevent the spread of diseases.

Behavior:

1. Perching Behavior:

   • Arc Eye Hawkfish are known for perching on rocks or coral heads to observe their surroundings. Provide suitable structures for perching.

2. Territorial Behavior:

   • They may establish territories, so ensure there are hiding spots and territories for each individual in a multi-species tank.

Lighting:

• Provide lighting suitable for a reef environment if you have corals in the tank. The Arc Eye Hawkfish does not have specific lighting requirements beyond what is suitable for a typical marine reef tank.

Caution:

• Be cautious with small invertebrates like shrimp, as the hawkfish may see them as potential prey.