Serranocirrhitus latus

Datasheet

General Description

The Hawkfish Anthias, scientifically known as Serranocirrhitus latus, is a species belonging to the Serranidae family. Found in the Western Pacific from the Moluccas to Fiji, north to the Izu Islands and Taiwan, and south to New Caledonia and the Great Barrier Reef, with recent sightings in Tonga, this delicate species can grow up to 13.0cm in size. Commonly known as the Swallowtail Basslet or Hawkfish Anthias, these fish exhibit a shy and docile temperament but may show aggression towards similar species.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for special aquariums, the Hawkfish Anthias requires a minimum tank size of 100 liters and thrives best in dimmed lighting conditions. Known to be delicate, this species can be choosy when it comes to food initially, preferring small crustaceans like krill and zooplankton. It is recommended to offer a varied diet to meet its nutritional needs adequately.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

With a delicate nature, this species requires a carefully curated environment to thrive. They prefer hiding spots within live rocks in the aquarium and necessitate good water quality with parameters such as pH between 8.1-8.4, KH of 8-12, specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C. The Hawkfish Anthias is hermaphroditic, capable of changing gender from female to male as needed.

Reef Suitability

Noted as always reef safe, the Hawkfish Anthias is considered compatible with reef environments due to its peaceful nature. This species adds a colorful and dynamic element to reef tanks.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for the Hawkfish Anthias, it is essential to provide ample hiding places within live rocks to ensure the fish feels secure. Dimmed lighting conditions should be maintained, and the tank should be well-aerated and maintained with proper filtration to uphold water quality. Additionally, aquarists should aim to replicate the natural habitat of this species by incorporating suitable substrates and decorations.

Behaviour

This species is known to be very secretive, often hiding between rocks. Once acclimated and comfortable in the aquarium, the Hawkfish Anthias may become more visible but remains relatively inactive in the water column compared to other fish species.

Feeding and Diet

To meet the dietary needs of the Hawkfish Anthias, a regular feeding schedule is vital. Offering a diverse diet consisting of small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia, as well as zooplankton such as cyclops and pods, is recommended. These fish may require frequent feedings initially until they adjust to captive diets.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

This species exhibits dimorphism through gender change, where females can transition to males when necessary. Captive reproduction of the Hawkfish Anthias may be achievable under suitable conditions, providing an intriguing aspect for aquarists interested in breeding behaviors.

Habitat and Distribution

The natural habitat of the Hawkfish Anthias extends from the Western Pacific, including regions from the Moluccas to Fiji, north to the Izu Islands and Taiwan, and south to New Caledonia and the Great Barrier Reef. These fish prefer rocky areas with ample hiding spots and are often found in reef environments.