Fin's Fish Guide
The Lyretail hogfish (Bodianus anthioides) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 24 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Cook Is. and others
Description
The Lyretail hogfish is a wrasse (Labridae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 24 cm and has an elongate body with projecting canine teeth. The forebody is red-brown and the rear body white with brown spots, with a conspicuously deep, lyre-shaped tail. As a bottom-oriented hunter it searches coral and rocky reefs for molluscs, crustaceans and sea urchins, which it crushes with its strong teeth. Like many wrasses it changes sex. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lyretail hogfish?
The Lyretail hogfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Lyretail hogfish live?
The Lyretail hogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Cook Is. and others
How big does the Lyretail hogfish get?
The Lyretail hogfish grows to a maximum of about 24 cm.
Is the Lyretail hogfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Lyretail 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 Lyretail hogfish edible?
Yes, the Lyretail hogfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Lyretail hogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lyretail hogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.