Hawkfish Anthias

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Found in the Western Pacific: from Indonesia and the Philippines to New Caledonia, Fiji, and the Great Barrier Reef. Inhabits deep outer reef slopes at depths of 15 to 70 meters, near caves and ledges.

Taxonomy and Morphology: The only member of the genus Serranocirrhitus. Unlike typical Anthias, it has a deep, laterally compressed body, resembling a hawkfish. Grows to about 13 cm in length.

Social Behavior: Solitary or found in small, loose groups. Has the unique habit of perching motionless on rocks or swimming upside-down along the ceilings of caves and overhangs.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Exceptionally colorful (Sunburst). Bright orange-yellow body with intense pink and magenta shadings, and pink stripes radiating from the eye. Sexual dimorphism is not prominent.

Aquarium Setup: Demands a tank of at least 200 liters with plenty of live rock arranged to form deep caves and shaded overhangs. It is vital to provide dark niches where it can swim upside-down. A lid is recommended.

Diet and Feeding: Benthic carnivore. Feeds on zooplankton and small crustaceans. Readily accepts frozen mysis, brine shrimp, calanus, and lobster eggs in the aquarium. Feed 2-3 times daily.

Water Quality: Stable marine parameters. Temperature 22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity SG 1.020-1.026. GH 15-25. Prefers moderate water movement and excellent biological filtration.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: 100% reef safe. Peaceful and shy species. Avoid housing with dominant surgeonfishes or aggressive damselfishes. Keep singly to prevent territorial fights.

Aquarium Breeding: Protogynous hermaphrodite. Spawning in home aquariums is undocumented due to challenges in pelagic larval rearing.

Risks and Diseases: Can show extreme shyness upon introduction, hiding for several days. Susceptible to marine ich (Cryptocaryon) under stress. Quarantine is highly recommended.