Fin's Fish Guide
The Sharphead hogfish (Bodianus oxycephalus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 29 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea (South), Ogasawara Is.
Description
The Sharphead hogfish is a wrasse (Labridae) from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 29 cm and has an elongate body with projecting canine teeth. It has a slender, red-and-white striped body with a conspicuously pointed head. 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 Sharphead hogfish?
The Sharphead hogfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Sharphead hogfish live?
The Sharphead hogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea (South), Ogasawara Is.
How big does the Sharphead hogfish get?
The Sharphead hogfish grows to a maximum of about 29 cm.
Is the Sharphead hogfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Sharphead 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 Sharphead hogfish edible?
Yes, the Sharphead 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 Sharphead hogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sharphead hogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.