Spotfin Hogfish

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Found in the tropical Western Atlantic, from North Carolina and Florida to southern Brazil. Prefers deep rocky reefs and coral structures, typically at depths of 15 to 120 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the genus Bodianus. Features a robust body with a pointed snout. Reaches a maximum size of 20 cm (8 inches) in aquaria, though wild specimens can reach 28 cm.

Social Behavior: Energetic and territorial towards other wrasses. Juveniles act as cleaner fish for larger tankmates, while adults become solitary foragers.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Stunning coloration: a bright red body with a white horizontal stripe along the mid-flank, and yellow dorsal and caudal fins. It has a black spot on the pectoral fin and anterior dorsal fin. No prominent sexual dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Needs a tank of at least 350 liters with robust rock structures forming caves and plenty of open water for active swimming. A secure lid is required to prevent jumps.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivorous. Feeds on crustaceans and small prey. In captivity, provide chopped clams, shrimp, krill, mysis, and high-quality large pellet food.

Water Quality: Requires stable marine parameters: temperature 24-27°C (75-81°F), pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.022-1.025, GH 15-25, and KH 8-12.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Not safe with small invertebrates. It will eat ornamental shrimp, crabs, snails, and urchins. Safe with all corals. Best housed with medium-sized semi-aggressive fish.

Aquarium Reproduction: Unreported in home aquaria. They are pelagic spawners, which is difficult to replicate in captive environments.

Risks and Diseases: Very hardy fish. Primary risks are territorial behavior towards similar-looking species or smaller fish introduced after it is established.