Coral Hogfish: The Split-Level Predator

The Coral Hogfish (Bodianus mesothorax), also widely known as the Eclipse Hogfish, Split-level Hogfish, or Black-belt Hogfish, is a strikingly colored and robust member of the Wrasse family (Labridae). It is a hardy and active fish that brings a bold splash of color and personality to a Fish-Only-With-Live-Rock (FOWLR) or large reef system (with caution).

The adult coloration features a unique pattern: the anterior (front) half of its body and head are a vibrant purplish-red or magenta, which abruptly transitions to a bright yellow or white posterior (rear) section, separated by a distinctive, broad black diagonal band (the 'eclipse' or 'split-level'). Juveniles are even more colorful, sporting a dark burgundy body with two lines of brilliant yellow spots, and often act as cleaners, picking parasites from other fish, a behavior they generally lose as they mature.

This species can reach a significant maximum size of 8 to 10 inches (20-25 cm) and is a powerful swimmer. Due to its size, activity level, and territorial nature, a minimum aquarium size of 70 to 100 gallons is highly recommended. Like other wrasses, it is known to jump when startled, making a secure, tight-fitting lid essential.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: The Coral Hogfish is a tireless Carnivore and opportunistic hunter. Its natural diet includes small crustaceans, snails, worms, and mollusks which it actively roots out of the substrate and rockwork. In the aquarium, it must be fed a varied diet of meaty frozen foods, such as mysis shrimp, finely chopped raw shrimp, squid, scallops, and krill. High-quality marine pellets can also be accepted.
• Feeding: Feed 2-3 times daily. Hogfish are voracious eaters, and frequent feedings are necessary to maintain their health and activity.
• Reef Compatibility: It is Reef Safe With Extreme Caution and generally not recommended for a typical reef setup. While it typically ignores corals, it poses a severe threat to the CUC (Clean-Up Crew) and ornamental invertebrates. It will systematically hunt and consume snails, hermits, fire shrimp, peppermint shrimp, small starfish, worms, and clam mantles. It is best suited for a FOWLR aquarium.
• Temperament: It is Semi-Aggressive to Aggressive. The Coral Hogfish can be a bully, especially when housed with smaller, more timid fish. Tankmates should be medium-to-large, robust, and moderately aggressive species that can hold their own, such as large tangs, triggers, and aggressive angels. It is territorial and should be kept singly unless the tank is very large and a confirmed male/female pair is obtained.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Bodianus mesothorax
• Primary Common Name: Coral Hogfish
• Other Common Names: Eclipse Hogfish, Split-level Hogfish, Black-belt Hogfish
• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Western Pacific, Eastern Indian Ocean)
• Max Size: 8-10 inches (20-25 cm)
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Predatory
• Diet: Carnivore (Meaty foods, hunts inverts)
• Minimum Tank Size: 70-100+ Gallons (Requires a tight-fitting lid)
• Reef Compatibility: With Extreme Caution (Will eat nearly all ornamental invertebrates)