Longnose Hawkfish (Oxycirrhites typus)

The Longnose Hawkfish is a distinctive and captivating marine species, known for its elongated snout, vibrant red and white checkerboard pattern, and unique perching behavior. This fish is often seen perched on corals or rock ledges, watching its surroundings before darting out to catch prey. Its active and bold personality, coupled with its striking appearance, makes it a favorite among aquarists. The Longnose Hawkfish is well-suited for reef tanks with caution, as it may prey on small invertebrates.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 5 inches.
• Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum; larger tanks with plenty of rockwork and coral branches for perching are ideal.
• Diet: Carnivorous; feeds primarily on small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. It will also accept high-quality frozen and pellet foods. Providing a varied diet ensures vibrant coloration and health.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Semi-aggressive; while peaceful with most fish, it may become territorial toward other bottom-dwelling species or smaller fish. It is also known to prey on small invertebrates such as shrimp, so care should be taken when selecting tankmates.
• Skill Level: Intermediate; relatively hardy and easy to care for in well-maintained systems, but care should be taken with tankmate selection.
• Reef Compatibility: With caution; while it will not harm corals, the Longnose Hawkfish may prey on small shrimp and other invertebrates, so it’s important to consider tank inhabitants carefully.

Special Feature - Perching Behavior
One of the most fascinating behaviors of the Longnose Hawkfish is its perching habit. It uses its strong pectoral fins to rest on rocks, corals, and other surfaces, from where it observes its surroundings. This behavior adds an extra dimension of personality to the aquarium, as the hawkfish frequently moves between different perches to watch for food.

Compatibility
While the Longnose Hawkfish is generally peaceful with most fish, it may show aggression toward smaller or similarly shaped species, and it may hunt small invertebrates like shrimp. It is best kept with tankmates that are too large to be considered prey and non-aggressive fish that won’t compete for the same space.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Longnose Hawkfish has a white body adorned with a bold red checkerboard pattern. Its long, slender snout and bright red markings make it one of the most visually striking hawkfish species. Its unique appearance, combined with its intriguing behavior, makes it a standout fish in any tank​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific, the Longnose Hawkfish is often found in coral-rich environments, particularly around deep reefs and rocky outcrops. It prefers areas with branching corals, which provide plenty of perching spots and hunting grounds.