Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: With Caution
General Description: The Lyretail Red Hawkfish, also known as the Swallowtail Hawk, has a large distribution across the Indo-West Pacific. With this large distribution however, the Lyretail red hawk is not as common in the aquarium trade. This could be due to the fact that this species can be found at depths of up to 400 feet. It has a mottled yellow-orange colored body wth a lyretail that separates it from all other hawkfish. Hawkfish are extremely personable and fun to watch as they “hop” and perch around the aquarium. This behavior is due to their lack of a swim bladder that would otherwise enable them to continually swim in the water column like many of their tank mates. The Lyretail red hawk is relatively hardy and one of the least aggressive hawkfish, making them a great choice for beginners! Still, the Lyretail red hawk should not be kept with very small and timid fish that could be subject to bullying. An adult Lyretail red hawkfish can reach a size of approximately 5″.
Diet Requirements: In the wild Lyretail red hawkfish are carnivores. A diet consisting of various protein-based dried foods and frozen preparations such as brine shrimp, squid, and mysis shrimp will maintain optimal health and coloration.
Care Requirements: A minimum 55 gallon aquarium with a tight lid is ideal, as some hawkfish have been known to jump. Hawkfish enjoy a variety of rock work and crevices to take refuge and perch on. The Lyretail red hawk is a little unusual, however, in that it prefers to perch in low areas of the aquarium, or on the substrate, rather than the rocks. This species may chase away fish that get close to its preferred perches. Keeping a single hawkfish species per aquarium is an absolute; the Lyretail red hawkfish is likely intolerable of other hawkfish species. Additionally, hawkfish can sometimes harass other fish that behave similarily (i.e., other fish that lack swim bladders such as blennies). The Lyretail red hawkfish is to be added into a reef aquarium “with caution” because certain small invertebrates (e.g., shrimp, crabs) or even fish will likely become prey. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size: Medium: 3″ to 3-3/4″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
