Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotfin hogfish (Bodianus pulchellus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 29 cm.
Description
The spotfin hogfish is a colourful wrasse from the western Atlantic, ranging from South Carolina and Bermuda through the Caribbean to Brazil, with an isolated population off Sao Tome. It grows to about 28 cm and is mostly red with a white lower stripe and a black blotch on the front of the dorsal fin. It lives on reefs between about 15 and 120 metres depth and feeds on crabs and small shellfish; juveniles clean parasites from other fish. Like many wrasses the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite, starting as a female and later able to change into a male. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotfin hogfish?
The Spotfin hogfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Black blotch at the front of the dorsal fin; juveniles clean other fishes; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Spotfin hogfish live?
The Spotfin hogfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic
How big does the Spotfin hogfish get?
The Spotfin hogfish grows to a maximum of about 29 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Spotfin hogfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotfin 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 Spotfin hogfish edible?
The Spotfin hogfish is rarely 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 Spotfin hogfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotfin hogfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.