Image 3-21
Arc-Eye Hawkfish

This image of an arc-eye hawkfish (Paracirrhites arcatus) was captured by NOAA photographers in the waters off the coast of Fiji. This species is native to the shallow waters of the tropical IndoPacific reefs, where it can commonly be found resting on coral heads. Hawkfish will perch high up on the coral and watch the ocean floor for prey, just like a hawk. The arc-eye hawkfish feeds grows to a length of 5.5 inches (14 centimeters) and feeds on shrimps and other small crustaceans.