Fin's Fish Guide
The Hogfish (Lachnolaimus maximus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 91 cm.
Description
The hogfish is a large, economically valuable wrasse of the family Labridae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 91 cm and has a deep body with a long, pig-like snout, with which it roots for prey in sand and rubble, and the first dorsal spines elongated into filaments. The colour ranges from pale to red-brown. With powerful jaws it crushes hard-shelled prey such as molluscs, crustaceans and sea urchins. The hogfish is a monandric, protogynous hermaphrodite: all individuals begin as females and the largest become males. Owing to fishing it is listed as Vulnerable (VU). It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hogfish?
The Hogfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Long, pig-like snout for rooting in sand; protogynous hermaphrodite, vulnerable (VU) due to fishing. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Hogfish live?
The Hogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; reef, sand and rubble bottoms.
How big does the Hogfish get?
The Hogfish grows to a maximum of about 91 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Hogfish dangerous to humans?
The Hogfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Hogfish edible?
Yes, the Hogfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Hogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.