The Blackside Hawkfish, Forster’s Hawkfish, Freckled Hawkfish, Forster Hawkfish (Paracirrhites forsteri) is a striking and captivating fish species known for its vibrant colors and unique characteristics. It is a popular choice for marine aquariums due to its beauty and relatively peaceful nature. This guide delves into the details of this fascinating creature, exploring its appearance, habitat, feeding habits, and taxonomic classification.
Description & Characteristics
The Blackside Hawkfish (Paracirrhites forsteri) is distinguished by its striking color patterns. Its body is predominantly reddish-brown to orange, with a black stripe running vertically along the side, giving it the “blackside” moniker. The fish also displays numerous white spots, giving it a “freckled” appearance. It can reach a maximum size of 22.0 cm, making it a medium-sized fish.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Blackside Hawkfish (Paracirrhites forsteri) is found in a variety of marine environments, including the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans. These zones encompass the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. It thrives in neritic waters, which are waters that lie over the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The Blackside Hawkfish (Paracirrhites forsteri) belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Centrarchiformes, and Family: Cirrhitidae. This classification places it within a group of bony fish, specifically within the order that includes sunfish and bass. The Cirrhitidae family, known as hawkfishes, is characterized by their distinct physical traits and unique adaptations.
Feeding
The Blackside Hawkfish (Paracirrhites forsteri) has a varied diet, consuming a range of food items. These include Brine Shrimps, Fish (little fishes), Frozen Food (large sort), Invertebrates, Living Food, Mysis, and Schrimps. This adaptable feeding behavior allows it to thrive in its diverse habitats.
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