Oxycirrhites typus
The Longnose Hawkfish, *Oxycirrhites typus*, is a captivating and unique addition to the home aquarium. Easily recognized by its elongated snout and striking red and white checkerboard pattern, this fish is a perching predator that spends much of its time resting on corals or rockwork, patiently waiting for unsuspecting prey.
A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a single Longnose Hawkfish. Provide plenty of live rock and branching corals to offer ample perching spots and hiding places. While generally peaceful towards tankmates that are not small enough to be considered prey, they can be territorial towards other hawkfish. They are considered reef safe with caution, as they may occasionally nip at small ornamental shrimp or other invertebrates.
The Longnose Hawkfish is a carnivore and its diet should consist of a variety of meaty foods. Offer a mix of mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and other high-quality frozen or live foods. They will typically grow to a size of approximately 5 inches in the home aquarium. There are no readily apparent visual differences between males and females. Breeding in captivity is not common.