Spanish Hogfish - Medium

The Spanish Hogfish (Bodianus rufus) is a larger member of the wrasse family with a pig-like snout. It’s main body colour is yellow with a large blue-purple stripe across it’s upper body. Juveniles will actively clean parasites and dead tissue away from other fish in the tank however once adults they begin to feed on invertebrates which makes them unsafe for reef aquariums.

They are found in coral and rock reefs in the Western Atlantic ocean.. They can grow to a maximum size of 10 inches (25cm). It's main adult natural carnivorous diet consists of snails, mussels, worms and shrimps.

Tank Recommendations for Spanish Hogfish

The minimum size of your tank should be at least 150 gallons (570 litres). As already mentioned adult, Spanish Hogfish are not suitable for reef aquariums.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Spanish Hogfish should never be kept with smaller more docile fish and invertebrates.

Usually Compatible

Species such as Angelfish, Goatfish and Grunts are all good choices for a peaceful tank.

Sometime Compatible

Caution should be taken when considering species such as Batfish, Bennies and Cardinal Fish.

Rarely Compatible

Species which are definite no-nos include invertebrates and crustaceans. Smaller docile fish are also easily harassed so it’s best not to keep them with these types of wrasse. Sharks and Rays should also be avoided as they have been known to eat them.

Feeding Your Spanish Hogfish

Give them a diet of a variety of fresh meaty foods such as miss and brine shrimp once adult. Juveniles will get nutrition from cleaning other fish in the tank. Be aware that hogfish will eat try to eat small fish and crustaceans.