Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus

(Bleeker, 1855)

Vernacular names
English : Coral hawkfish
French : Poisson-épervier à points rouges

Classification
Class : Teleostei
Order : Centrarchiformes
Family : Cirrhitidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
The species grows to 10 cm in length. High body profile, dorsal fin with small tuft-like appendages on each rays. Coloration white on lower flanks, red on upper flanks with alternating of big and small dark brown to red blotches. Fins spotted.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in the Indo-Pacific region, from Red Sea and South Africa to Gulf of California and Galapagos islands, north to Mariana islands. Lives in clearwater lagoon and seaward reefs with rich coral growth, to 40 m.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species has a huge range. It is dependent on coral reefs for its survival and this could become a long-term threat.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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