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Basics

Scientific Name: Neocirrhites armatus

Family: Cirrhitidae

Origin: Hawaii, Fiji, Tahiti

Quick Facts

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Lifespan: 5-7 years, possibly longer
• Reef Compatible: With Caution
• Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
• Maximum Size: 3.5"- 4"
• Diet: Carnivore
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Overview

The Flame Hawkfish is also commonly known as the Brilliant Red Hawkfish. They are an incredibly popular species in the aquarium hobby and are praised for their beautiful looks, vibrant personalities and vigilant nature. They are a bright red in color with black pigment along their backs and around their eyes. The amount of black varies from individual to individual. They have large, watchful eyes. 

They should be kept in an aquarium with plenty of live rock for them to perch on and hide in. They will do excellently in a reef tank as long as there are no small shrimp that they may eat, and will appreciate being able to perch among the corals. They are tolerant of tankmates that stay out of their territory but may be belligerent with bottom dwelling species such as gobies. 

They should be fed a variety of meaty preparations, including live and frozen brine shrimp and mysis shrimp.