Hogfish belong to the Labridae family. All these fish are classified in the genus Bodianus. Most Hogfish reach a size of around seven inches in an aquarium, and the largest member of this family reaches over 30 inches in the wild. These fish are in the same family as Wrasse, and are closely related to Parrotfish. Hogfish can be recognized by their elongated snout, protruding lips, and sharp teeth. Hogfish are found in tropical waters around the world, and are most commonly associated with coral reefs, rocky outcrops, or lagoons. Depending on the age of the fish, most Hogfish are found in groups, or as solitary individuals.
Like a few other marine fish, most Hogfish go through a drastic color change from juvenile to adult form. Some of these fish act as cleaners when young, picking parasites from larger fish.
Hogfish feed on small fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, and make very hardy aquarium dwellers that adapt well to an aquarium setting. Provide Hogfish with an aquarium with a well-sealed lid, ample hiding places, and plenty of swimming room. These fish grow quickly and require a large aquarium for long-term success. In the majority of these fish, no distinguishing characteristics differentiate males from females, and breeding in an aquarium is extremely difficult.
They are generally compatible with: Dwarf Angelfish, Large Angelfish, Anglers & Frogfish, Anthias, Boxfish, Butterflyfish, Clownfish, Damselfish, Filefish, Goatfish, Hawkfish, Parrotfish, Puffers, Squirrelfish and Tangs & Surgeons.
Caution is required with: Basslets, Batfish, Blennies, Cardinalfish, Eels, Gobies, Groupers, Grunts & Sweetlips, Lionfish & Scorpionfish, Pseudochromis, Triggerfish and Wrasse.
They are not compatible with: Hogfish, Seahorses & Pipefish and Sharks & Rays.
- Blackfin Hogfish
- Coral Hogfish
- Cuban Hogfish
- Diana's Hogfish
- Lyretail Hogfish
- Saddleback Hogfish
- Spanish Hogfish
- Twinspot Hogfish
