Often, the Pixy Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus) gets confused with the Cirrhitichthys aprinus, which is also called as the Spotted Hawkfish. The Pixy Hawkfish is a hardy and semi-aggressive fish that gets along well with the inhabitants in a community fish aquarium. With its attractive body markings, the Pixy Hawkfish makes a great and beautiful addition to any tank.  It may turn predatory towards small gobies, firefishes, small wrasses etc, and should not be housed with them, especially in a smaller aquarium. The Pixy Hawkfish needs lot of plenty place with rock ledges for it to perch on, and caves and crevices to retreat when frightened or sleeping. Therefore, we recommend you to have a well-established tank along with live rocks and rubble before adding it to it. The Pixy Hawkfish is mainly carnivorous and its food includes invertebrates, meaty foods, frozen and flaked meaty preparations along with feeder shrimps. 

Pixy Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus) - A Marvel for Your Saltwater Aquarium

Habitat of the Pixy Hawkfish:

Originating from the Indo-Pacific region, the Pixy Hawkfish is typically found in shallow coral-rich areas, preferring rocky ledges and overhangs. Their natural habitat comprises a mix of coral formations, providing ample hiding spaces and perches for them to survey their surroundings.

Reef Compatibility of the Pixy Hawkfish:

The Pixy Hawkfish is generally considered reef-safe, making it suitable for reef aquarium setups. However, caution should be exercised when introducing them to a tank with smaller invertebrates, as they may view them as potential prey.

Size and Lifespan of the Pixy Hawkfish:

These hawkfish typically reach a size of 3 to 4 inches in captivity. With proper care, Pixy Hawkfish can thrive in a well-maintained aquarium for 5 to 7 years.

Diet in Captivity for the Pixy Hawkfish:

Pixy Hawkfish display a diverse diet in a controlled environment. They readily accept a variety of marine-based foods, including high-quality pellets, frozen shrimp, and small live prey. Offering a mix of these food sources helps maintain their health and vibrancy.

Aquaculture and Availability of the Pixy Hawkfish:

Pixy Hawkfish are currently aquacultured, contributing to their availability in the hobbyist market. This ensures that enthusiasts can acquire well-acclimated specimens in captive conditions, enhancing their chances of successful integration into a home aquarium.

Compatibility with Other Fish and Invertebrates:

While generally peaceful, the Pixy Hawkfish can display territorial behavior. Compatible tank mates should be chosen carefully to avoid aggression issues. Suitable tank mates include the Firefish (Nemateleotris spp.), Blennies, Cardinalfish, Gobies, and certain peaceful wrasse species.

Sexual Dimorphism in the Pixy Hawkfish:

Distinguishing between male and female Pixy Hawkfish can be challenging as they do not exhibit pronounced sexual dimorphism. Both sexes share similar coloration and features, making it difficult to differentiate between them visually.

Juvenile to Adult Coloration Changes in the Pixy Hawkfish:

Juvenile Pixy Hawkfish typically display a vibrant mix of red, orange, and white colors. As they mature, the intensity of these colors may change, and adult specimens often exhibit a more subdued yet still captivating palette of reds and whites.

Temperament of the Pixy Hawkfish:

Pixy Hawkfish are known for their curious and alert nature. While generally peaceful, they may display territorial behavior, especially towards conspecifics or similar-looking species. Adequate hiding spots should be provided to reduce stress and aggression.

Tank Requirements for the Pixy Hawkfish:

• To ensure the well-being of Pixy Hawkfish, a minimum aquarium size of 30 gallons is recommended.
• This provides enough space for swimming and establishes territories.
• The tank should feature plenty of live rock structures, caves, and crevices for hiding and perching.

Water Conditions for the Pixy Hawkfish:

• Maintaining stable water conditions is crucial for the health of Pixy Hawkfish.
• Recommended parameters include a pH range of 8.1-8.4, salinity between 1.020-1.025, water temperature ranging from 72-78°F, and moderate water flow to mimic their natural habitat.

Other Common Names of the Pixy Hawkfish:

Dwarf Hawkfish, Coral Hawkfish, Flame Hawkfish

Five Compatible Tank Mates:

• Firefish (Nemateleotris spp.)
• Blennies (e.g., Bicolor Blenny)
• Cardinalfish (e.g., Pajama Cardinalfish)
• Gobies (e.g., Yellow Clown Goby)
• Wrasse (e.g., Sixline Wrasse)

Why Buy from Saltwaterfish.com:

Saltwaterfish.com stands out as a reliable source for acquiring Pixy Hawkfish for several reasons. Their specimens are sourced from reputable aquaculture facilities, ensuring the health and adaptability of the fish. The online platform also provides valuable resources, including expert advice, comprehensive care guides, and a community forum, fostering a supportive environment for marine enthusiasts. With a commitment to sustainable practices and customer satisfaction, Saltwaterfish.com is the ideal choice for those looking to add Pixy Hawkfish to their saltwater aquarium.