Pairing Flame Hawkfish?

Zionas · Apr 9, 2020

I am thinking of maybe getting a pair of Flame Hawks as I find them really cute. However, is pairing them easy? Is there a very noticeable sexual dimorphism? Do I go two of the same size or one bigger and one smaller? Either way I will be introducing them at the same time.

My aquarium will have a cover regardless, but if I pair them will there be less of a chance they’ll want to escape? Does pairing fish also positively impact their longevity and overall health?

Auquanut · Apr 9, 2020

From what I've read, all flame hawks are born female with the dominant one changing to male. They often pair up and get along well. Of course, nothing is ever certain.

I personally would get two of approximately the same size, and let them figure out the male/female thing.

Actually, flames spawn in open water near the surface. The female releases the eggs, the male fertilizes, and the eggs simply free flow on the current. Spending that time near the surface of the tank may increase the likelihood of jumping if startled.

Just my opinion,but if the fish are happy together, it can only be good for their longevity.

After reading up on this topic, I may just have to get a friend for my little FH. They really are cool characters. Even though they look like they're always up to no good.

Zionas · Apr 9, 2020

Cool. Looks like I’ll be getting a pair of around the same size.

Zionas · Apr 10, 2020

Would a harem of 3 work if they’re around the same size and added together?

Lps_lover12 · Aug 2, 2022

Zionas said:
Cool. Looks like I’ll be getting a pair of around the same size.

Did you end up getting a pair? I realize this was two years ago but I really wanna get a pair and was wondering if it worked out

4roaming · Mar 6, 2025

Old thread but I had a pair of them a while back. I don’t remember any aggression but they were both juveniles when I put them in my 60x30 mixed reef. Unfortunately I learned my lesson about keeping a screen over them when they both ended up on the floor. They make a dash up into the water column when spawning and it ended up bad in my case. Keep a screen on particularly at night when they spawn.