Geometric Pygmy Hawk

Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish - A Tiny Predator with Bold Patterns

The Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish (Plectranthias inermis) is a rare and stunning micro-predator that brings bold geometric patterns and fascinating behavior to reef aquariums. With its distinctive red and white striped body, tiny size, and characteristic hawkfish perching behavior, this captivating fish is a true gem for collectors who appreciate rare and unusual species. Despite its small stature, the Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish has a big personality and makes an excellent addition to peaceful reef communities.

Key Features:

• Striking Patterns: Bold red and white geometric stripes create a distinctive, eye-catching appearance
• Tiny Size: One of the smallest hawkfish species, perfect for nano reefs
• Rare Species: Uncommon in the aquarium trade, making it a prized addition for collectors
• Perching Behavior: Classic hawkfish behavior of perching on rocks and corals
• Reef Safe: Safe with corals; may eat very small ornamental shrimp
• Hardy & Adaptable: Generally hardy once acclimated to aquarium life
• Nano Reef Suitable: Small size makes it ideal for smaller aquariums

Care Requirements:

Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons; perfect for nano reefs
Diet: Carnivore - readily accepts frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and quality pellets
Temperament: Generally peaceful; may be territorial with other hawkfish or similar species
Reef Compatibility: Excellent with corals; may eat very small shrimp (sexy shrimp, etc.)
Experience Level: Intermediate - requires proper feeding and acclimation
Adult Size: 2-3 inches maximum

Distinctive Appearance:

The Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish displays stunning and unique coloration:

• Bold red and white horizontal stripes running the length of the body
• Geometric pattern creates a distinctive, almost painted appearance
• Large, expressive eyes with red accents
• Compact, stocky body typical of hawkfish
• Pectoral fins used for perching on rocks and corals
• Colors remain vibrant throughout the fish's life

Classic Hawkfish Behavior:

Despite its small size, the Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish displays all the characteristic behaviors of larger hawkfish species:

• Perching: Spends most time perched on rocks, coral branches, or other elevated spots
• Hunting: Watches for prey from its perch, then darts out to capture passing food
• Territorial: Establishes favorite perching spots and defends them from similar fish
• Alert & Active: Constantly scanning its surroundings with large, expressive eyes
• Bold Personality: Confident and interactive despite its tiny size

Perfect for Nano Reefs:

The Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish's small adult size (2-3 inches) makes it an ideal choice for nano reef aquariums. In tanks as small as 20 gallons, this fish can thrive and become a stunning centerpiece. Its perching behavior means it doesn't require large swimming spaces, making it comfortable in smaller systems with adequate rockwork and perching spots.

Feeding:

Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish are carnivores that readily accept a variety of meaty foods. Offer frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and quality carnivore pellets 1-2 times daily. They have small mouths, so ensure food is appropriately sized. These fish are enthusiastic eaters and will quickly learn to recognize feeding time, often perching near the surface in anticipation.

Reef Compatibility:

Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish are generally reef safe and won't harm corals. However, like all hawkfish, they're micro-predators that may consume:

• Very small ornamental shrimp (sexy shrimp, mini carpet anemone shrimp)
• Small snails
• Tiny crustaceans and amphipods

Larger ornamental shrimp (cleaner shrimp, peppermint shrimp, fire shrimp) are generally safe. The Geometric Pygmy's small size limits what it can consume compared to larger hawkfish species.

Compatibility:

Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish are generally peaceful and compatible with most tank mates including:

• Clownfish, gobies, blennies, dartfish, and other peaceful community fish
• Peaceful wrasses and smaller tangs
• All types of corals
• Larger ornamental shrimp and most invertebrates

Avoid housing with other hawkfish or similarly shaped fish in smaller tanks, as territorial disputes may occur. Also avoid housing with aggressive fish that might harass this small species.

Tank Setup:

Provide plenty of rockwork with perching spots at various heights. Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish appreciate coral branches, rock ledges, and other elevated perches where they can survey their territory. They'll establish favorite perching spots and spend most of their time there. Moderate water flow is ideal, and they adapt well to various lighting conditions.

Acclimation:

Take care during acclimation, using a slow drip method over 1-2 hours. Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish can be sensitive to rapid changes in water parameters. Once acclimated and eating well, they're generally hardy and disease-resistant.

Rarity & Collector Appeal:

The Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish is relatively uncommon in the aquarium trade, making it a prized addition for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate rare species. Its combination of bold geometric patterns, tiny size, and classic hawkfish behavior makes it a unique and desirable fish that draws attention and admiration.

Personality in a Small Package:

Don't let the small size fool you—Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish have big personalities. They're bold, curious, and interactive, often becoming one of the most entertaining fish in the aquarium. Their perching behavior, hunting strikes, and expressive eyes make them endlessly fascinating to observe.

Captive-Bred Advantage:

When available, our Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish are captive-bred, ensuring superior health, disease resistance, and adaptability to aquarium conditions. Captive breeding also protects wild reef populations of this rare species while providing you with a hardier, more resilient fish that's already acclimated to prepared foods.

Our Geometric Pygmy Hawkfish are carefully selected, quarantined, and eating well before shipment. Each fish is backed by our live arrival guarantee, ensuring your rare and stunning micro-predator arrives healthy and ready to bring bold geometric beauty and entertaining hawkfish behavior to your reef aquarium.