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