Lyretail Hogfish

Lyretail Hogfish

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Bodianus anthioides

Overview
Reef Compatible: No
Diet: Carnivor
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Origin: Eastern Asia/South Asia

Bodianus anthioides, also known as the lyretail hogfish or lyretail pigfish, is a captivating species of wrasse found in the Indo-Pacific region, spanning from the Red Sea to Tuamotu. Let’s explore some fascinating details about this remarkable fish:

• Appearance: The lyretail hogfish stands out with its vibrant coloration. Adult males exhibit shades of orange and yellow, while females are more subdued. Their elongated snout and concave dorsal profile add to their distinctive appearance. Notably, they have a broad, black crescent-shaped bar on the caudal peduncle, giving rise to their common name.
• Habitat: These fish inhabit the seaward edges of reefs, and in Micronesia, they are most commonly found below 25 meters (82 feet) in depth. They prefer solitary lives but form pairs during spawning. Interestingly, juvenile lyretail hogfish mimic cleaner fish.
• Diet: Their menu includes echinoderms, mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish.
• Size: Lyretail hogfish can grow up to a length of 25 centimeters (9.8 inches).

Next time you explore the underwater world, keep an eye out for this captivating wrasse!