Paracirrhites forsteri

Behavior:

Often called the freckled hawkfish, this species is a quintessential “perch and pounce” predator. Lacking a swim bladder, it cannot hover; instead, it uses its thickened lower pectoral fin rays to wedge itself onto the tops of hard corals (especially Pocillopora or Acropora). From this vantage point, it surveys the water column like a hawk, waiting to ambush small fish or crustaceans that swim too close. Despite their stationary nature, they are quite bold and will often stare back at divers with intense, roving eyes.

Predators:

Moray eels and snapper.

Did you know?

The Forster’s hawkfish is a master of color change. While juveniles are often white with a dark stripe, adults can range from olive-green to deep burgundy or even yellow. The easiest way to identify them is the cluster of small, dark “freckles” or spots concentrated on their face and head.