Flame Hawkfish

Neocirrhitus armatus


(9 Reviews)

Flame Hawkfish
The Flame Hawkfish, with its fiery red body and captivating gaze, is a bold addition to any aquarium. It's known for its hardiness and unique perching behavior, making it both an easy-to-care-for and intriguing choice for hobbyists.

Flame Hawkfish

Neocirrhitus armatus


(9 Reviews)

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Flame Hawkfish Care Facts

Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Diet: Carnivore
Reef Safe: Yes
Invert Safe: No
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Max Size: 4 inches
The Flame Hawkfish, Neocirrhitus armatus, is also popularly known as the Brilliant Red Hawkfish. It has beautiful bright red slender body with a black dorsal fin. As the Flame Hawkfish grows, the dorsal fin grows longer and also transforms its shape. The Flame Hawkfish requires a minimum of a 30-gallon aquarium, can grow as long as 4 inches, and requires special care when selecting tank mates, as they can become aggressive and territorial with species of similar-looking fish.


The Flame Hawkfish: A Captivating Addition to Marine Aquariums

The Flame Hawkfish (Neocirrhitus armatus) is a captivating and fiery addition to marine aquariums. With its vibrant colors and unique appearance, this species of hawkfish can add a touch of dynamism and elegance to any reef environment. Let's explore the Flame Hawkfish's habitat, reef-safe nature, size, lifespan, diet, aquaculture potential, compatibility, suitable tank mates, tank requirements, other common names, and compatible tank mates.

Habitat and Origin

The Flame Hawkfish is native to the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea and the western Pacific Ocean. In the wild, they are often found in rocky or coral-rich areas with ample hiding spots and perching locations.

Reef Safe and Behavior

While the Flame Hawkfish is generally considered reef safe, it has a carnivorous nature and may prey upon small shrimps, crabs, and small fish. It is essential to provide a well-fed and diverse diet to reduce the likelihood of it preying on tank mates.

Size, Lifespan, and Diet

The Flame Hawkfish can grow to be 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) in length. They can have a lifespan of several years with proper care in a well-maintained aquarium. The Flame Hawkfish is carnivorous, primarily feeding on small crustaceans and fish in the wild. In captivity, they accept a variety of meaty marine foods, such as frozen or live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, chopped fish, and high-quality pellet or flake foods.

Aquaculture and Availability

The Flame Hawkfish is available in the aquarium trade, and captive-bred specimens are starting to emerge. While less prevalent than some other species, their successful aquaculture can contribute to their availability and sustainability in the hobby.

Compatibility and Tank Mates

The Flame Hawkfish can be territorial and aggressive towards similar-looking species. It is essential to carefully select compatible tank mates to maintain harmony in the aquarium.

Suitable Tank Mates:

  • Firefish (Nemateleotris magnifica): Peaceful and visually striking, Firefish can coexist harmoniously with the Flame Hawkfish.
  • Fairy Wrasses (Cirrhilabrus spp.): Peaceful and colorful, fairy wrasses can add visual appeal and a sense of movement to the tank.
  • Anthias (e.g., Pseudanthias spp.): Peaceful anthias species can be suitable tank mates, especially in larger aquariums with ample swimming space.
  • Cardinalfish (e.g., Pterapogon kauderni): Peaceful cardinalfish can coexist with the Flame Hawkfish, creating a diverse and vibrant tank.
  • Tangs (e.g., Naso Tang): Certain tang species can coexist with the Flame Hawkfish in larger aquariums. However, avoid aggressive tangs that may harass the hawkfish.

Tank Requirements

The Flame Hawkfish thrives in a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding spots and perching. They prefer stable water conditions and moderate to high water flow. A sandy substrate is ideal, providing a natural environment for them to search for food and perch.

Other Common Names

In addition to the name "Flame Hawkfish" or "Neocirrhitus armatus," this species is also known as the "Red Hawkfish" or "Lined Hawkfish."

Get the Flame Hawkfish from Salt Water Fish

If you're interested in adding a Flame Hawkfish to your marine aquarium, consider sourcing one from reputable saltwater fish suppliers. With proper care and attention, the Flame Hawkfish can thrive and become a focal point of admiration in any marine aquarium.


Reviewed by: Alan Sublett on July 1, 2024

Doing well. Beautiful color and interesting facial expression.


Reviewed by: David Grass on May 5, 2024


Reviewed by: Alvin Barbes on Oct. 29, 2023


Reviewed by: Steve Morosin on Oct. 1, 2023

Ours looks just like the picture. He coexists with a Vilamingi Tang we call Big Boy who eats everything it can, a Yellow Tang, a Black & Yellow, 3 Clownfish and a couple of others we haven't figured out what they are yet along with 60 hermit crabs, starfish and coral and sponge. 'Flamer' as we call him, is everybody's favorite because he is so peculiar...darting, hiding, flirting, and he has no swim bladder so he is not buoyant...and his furious attempts to reach the surface for food from high on the perch of the coral is fun to watch. He is indeed resilient.


Reviewed by: James Brown on June 11, 2020

Love this guy. Beautiful red


Reviewed by: Tylan Hansen on Oct. 2, 2019

Fish came in healthy has great personality and seems friendly with all my fish


Reviewed by: Frank on Aug. 29, 2017


Reviewed by: Dp on Oct. 8, 2014


Reviewed by: Lee Strodthoff on Sept. 15, 2014

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