The Izu hogfish (Bodianus izuensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Japan, New Caledonia, Palau and others
Description
The Izu hogfish is a wrasse, a hogfish (Labridae), from reef water of the northwest Pacific, off Japan. The species has an elongate, red-pink with white and yellow tints body with strong canine teeth with which it crushes molluscs, crustaceans and sea urchins. As a bottom-oriented fish it swims over coral and rocky reefs; like many wrasses a female changes sex on loss of the male. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Izu hogfish?
The Izu hogfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Izu hogfish live?
The Izu hogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Japan, New Caledonia, Palau and others
How big does the Izu hogfish get?
The Izu hogfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Izu hogfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Izu hogfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Izu hogfish edible?
Yes, the Izu hogfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bodianus
More from the family Labridae

Want the complete picture on the Izu hogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Izu hogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.