The Coral Hogfish, also known as Eclipse Hogfish or Mesothorax Hogfish, has a burgundy face with a rosy-yellow posterior, separated by a black stripe.

It is a beneficial fish for a 55 gallon or larger reef tank as a youth, cleaning parasites off of its tank mates. With maturity, however, it will need to be in a 75 gallon or larger fish-only tank, or the reef will become its buffet. It is aggressive towards smaller, docile fish that are easily bullied.

The mature adult Coral Hogfish will eat snails, worms, mussels, small fish, shrimp, and squid.

Like other hogfish, 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.

Fish Facts

Name: Coral Hogfish (Bodianus mesothorax)

Family: Labridae

Range: Western Pacific

Size: Up to 8 inches

Diet: Carnivore

Tank Set-up: Marine: Coral or rock, plants

Reef Compatible: With caution

Tank Conditions: 72-78°F; sg 1.020-1.025; pH 8.1-8.4

Minimum Tank Capacity: Juvenile: 55 gallon; Adult: 75 gallon

Light: High

Temperament: Aggressive

Swimming Level: No specific level

Care Level: Moderate

Reproduction: Group Spawner