Needle-like $alpha-Fe_{2}O_{3}$ particles as precursor for magnetic recording media were prepared directly from amorphous ferric hydroxide in the aqueous solution by hydrothermal reaction. Ellipsoidal or rectangular $alpha-Fe_{2}O_{3}$ particles were formed in the range of pH 10.75~11.75. The length and acicularity of $alpha-Fe_{2}O_{3}$ particles were decreased gradually with increasing of citric acid concentration. The formation of needle-like $alpha-Fe_{2}O_{3}$ particles was inhibited above citric acid concentration of $1.5{ imes}10^{-4};mol$. We can synthesize $alpha-Fe_{2}O_{3}$ particles with the most superior acicularity at $140^{circ}C$ and can not expect a good needle-like particles above $220^{circ}C$.