Can a beginner keep one?

Its care difficulty is rated intermediate, so it can be a stretch as a first marine fish. It is safer to consider it after gaining experience with tank setup, water management and feeding.

How large does it get?

The maximum total length is 13 cm (FishBase). Plan your tank size and rockwork layout with its adult size in mind.

How long does it live?

Information on its lifespan is limited, so we cannot give a reliable figure. It likely varies with the individual and its environment, so daily observation and a stable tank are the best approach.

Why does it swim upside down?

It is part of the fish's natural habit of swimming along the ceilings of caves and under ledges. Providing a roofed hiding place makes this behavior easier to observe.

What should I prepare before buying?

Set up rockwork with cave-like spaces and ledges, and make sure water quality is stable. It also helps to ask the seller about the fish's rearing conditions and diet, which can reduce surprises after it arrives.

Hawkfish anthias

The Hawkfish anthias is a pink-to-orange member of the anthias group with a deep body, and it is the only known species in its genus. In nature it swims along the ceilings of caves and under ledges, often upside down, and in the aquarium it tends to spend its time around rock overhangs and hiding places. It grows to a maximum total length of 13 cm. Care is rated intermediate, so it suits hobbyists who are already comfortable with tank maintenance and feeding routines. Information on its lifespan is limited, so it is best to approach each fish patiently and get to know it individually.

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Hawkfish anthias key facts

Care level: Intermediate
Lifespan: Little data available
Size: Up to 13 cm TL (FishBase)
Temperature: 22〜27℃
Diet: Carnivore (zooplankton)
Water Temperature & Quality: 22-27°C, specific gravity 1.020-1.026 (Saltcorner). Moderate water flow.
Container & Tank: About 280 L (75 gallons) or more. It is shy, so build plenty of caves and overhangs it can swim under upside-down.
Tank Mates & Compatibility: Keep with peaceful tankmates.
Reef Compatibility: Leaves corals and invertebrates alone; reef-safe.
Diet & Feeding: Feed frozen meaty foods such as mysis and finely chopped squid, fish and shrimp at least twice a day, released into the current so it carries them to the fish. Start reluctant feeders on live brine shrimp.
Health & Cautions: It may hide and refuse food at first, so have hiding places ready before introducing it.

TraitsAnthiasSwims upside-downReef-safeMonotypic genus

About Hawkfish anthias

The Hawkfish anthias is a pink-to-orange anthias known for swimming upside down under cave ceilings, reaching a maximum of 13 cm. Rated intermediate. Traits, care tips, pre-purchase notes and FAQ.

7 things to know before welcoming a Hawkfish anthias

1Intermediate-level fish
Its care difficulty is rated intermediate. It is easier to enjoy once you have a stable tank and some experience with water management and feeding. If this would be your first marine fish, consider gaining experience with other species first.
2Swims upside down
In nature it swims along the ceilings of caves and under ledges, often upside down. In the aquarium, overhanging rocks and roofed hiding places make this behavior easier to see. An inverted posture is simply one of the ways this fish typically behaves.
3Provide hiding spots
Build the rockwork with cave-like spaces and ledges so the fish has somewhere secure to settle. With little cover, it may look restless.
4Room to grow
It can reach a maximum total length of 13 cm. Rather than choosing a tank based on how small the fish is at first, plan for its adult size. A tank with room for both open swimming space and rockwork is a good fit.
5Choose tank mates carefully
Fish of similar shape or color, and other Hawkfish anthias, can sometimes clash. Introduce tank mates carefully and watch how each fish behaves. Compatibility can also change with tank size and the order of introduction.
6Check feeding first
Until it settles in, watch closely to see whether it is eating well. Individual fish adapt to foods and feeding methods differently, so it helps to ask the seller what the fish was being fed before you bring it home.
7Acclimation and quarantine
Acclimate a new fish carefully and keep water quality stable. To avoid passing anything on to your other fish, consider observing it in a separate quarantine tank first. If you notice changes on the body surface or a drop in appetite, consult an expert or an experienced hobbyist early.

Frequently asked questions about Hawkfish anthias

Q.Can a beginner keep one?: A.Its care difficulty is rated intermediate, so it can be a stretch as a first marine fish. It is safer to consider it after gaining experience with tank setup, water management and feeding.
Q.How large does it get?: A.The maximum total length is 13 cm (FishBase). Plan your tank size and rockwork layout with its adult size in mind.
Q.How long does it live?: A.Information on its lifespan is limited, so we cannot give a reliable figure. It likely varies with the individual and its environment, so daily observation and a stable tank are the best approach.
Q.Why does it swim upside down?: A.It is part of the fish's natural habit of swimming along the ceilings of caves and under ledges. Providing a roofed hiding place makes this behavior easier to observe.
Q.What should I prepare before buying?: A.Set up rockwork with cave-like spaces and ledges, and make sure water quality is stable. It also helps to ask the seller about the fish's rearing conditions and diet, which can reduce surprises after it arrives.