Water parameters
Overview
The freckled hawkfish is recognized by the red-brown spots covering its head and the dark band on the rear half of its back; its color varies with age and region. Like other hawkfish, it perches on top of rocks and pounces on prey passing nearby. It is a large predator reaching 20 cm; hardy and with a big appetite, but it eats fish and shrimp that fit in its mouth.
Tank Setup
- At least 300 liters.
- Salinity specific gravity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–27°C.
- Reef-safe with caution: it leaves corals alone, but hunts ornamental shrimp, crabs and small fish.
- High rock points to perch on and strong flow.
Diet
Carnivorous. Offer frozen krill, mysis, chopped seafood and large granule food; 1–2 times a day.
Behavior and Compatibility
Usually calm towards fish larger than itself; it sees every fish and shrimp that fits in its mouth as prey. It is territorial towards other hawkfish; keep a single specimen.
Good companions: Large, robust species such as tangs, large dwarf angelfish, large scorpionfish and triggerfish.
Avoid: Gobies, firefish goby, cardinalfish, chromis, small damsels, all ornamental shrimp and other hawkfish.
A short profile for this species
The Freckled Hawkfish page has the basics, but the sections below have not been written yet. If you keep this species, write a section from your own experience; it will be published under your name after editor approval.
Tank mates
This list is calculated automatically from the species profile and grows as new species are added to the catalog. Try it in the planner for a definite answer.
Should not be kept together
Hobbyist notes
Things you won't find in books, learned by trial and error. The most helpful ones are on top.
Change history and contributors
- Page created · October 16, 2026