Your Guide to Buying and Adding a Pixie Hawkfish to Your Tank

The Pixie Hawkfish, also known as the Coral Hawkfish, is an intriguing marine species that brings a splash of vibrant red to the aquarium. Admired for its distinctive appearance and charismatic behaviour, the Pixie Hawkfish is an excellent choice for aquarists who desire an active and attention-grabbing fish. Here's a detailed guide to ensure you provide an optimal environment for this aquatic gem.

Choosing the Right Pixie Hawkfish

When selecting your Pixie Hawkfish:

• Opt for individuals displaying a strong, vibrant red colour.
• Watch out for signs of disease or injury. Active and alert specimens are typically healthier.

Physical Appearance

Characteristics that define the Pixie Hawkfish:

• They possess a bright red coloration with subtle white markings on their bodies.
• Their eyes are notably large compared to their body size.
• Adult Pixie Hawkfish can grow up to 4 inches in length.

Compatibility with Other Fish

Achieving a peaceful coexistence:

• The Pixie Hawkfish can be somewhat territorial, especially towards smaller fish.
• Keeping them with larger, non-aggressive tankmates is advisable.
• Small crustaceans and invertebrates might be at risk, so compatibility should be carefully considered.

Reef Safe

Protecting your reef inhabitants:

• While they are mostly safe with corals, they may prey upon small invertebrates and crustaceans.
• Their tendency to perch on corals doesn't usually harm the corals but monitor for any signs of distress.

Suitable Tank Size

Creating their ideal environment:

• A 100 litre tank is the minimum recommended size.
• Provide a lot of rocky outcrops and perching spots to mimic their natural habitat.

Water Conditions

Keeping the water parameters optimal:

• Temperature: 22-26°C
• pH levels: 8.1-8.4.
• Specific gravity: 1.020-1.025.

Preparing Your Tank

Setting up their space:

• Design the tank with plenty of rockwork to cater to their love for perching.
• Create multiple vantage points, as they like to observe their surroundings from a high spot.

Monitoring Behaviour

Tracking their movements and interactions:

• Often seen darting from one perch to another or swimming in short bursts.
• Keep an eye out for any signs of aggression towards tankmates.

Feeding Schedule

Meeting their dietary requirements:

• They have a carnivorous appetite and prefer meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other marine-based proteins.
• Feed them once a day, ensuring all food is consumed in a few minutes.

Incorporating a Pixie Hawkfish into your marine setup can bring both colour and dynamism. While they do come with their own set of care requirements, a dedicated aquarist can easily cater to their needs, resulting in a healthy and vibrant fish that enriches the tank environment.