Location
Luzon Island, Philippines
Caption
This ring-eyed hawkfish (Paracirrhites arcatus, family Cirrhitidae) is about two inches (5 cm) in length. As with other hawkfish, it has a voyeuristic nature, seeming intensely interested in spying on me, yet cautiously maintaining a respectable distance. Lacking a swim bladder, they spend most of their time perched on corals, watching for prey, interrupted by an occasional sudden dash to another nearby vantage point. Hawkfish are opportunistic carnivores, feeding mostly on small fishes or crustaceans.