Common name: Sunrise wrasse
General information
The Hawaiian Hogfish, Bodianus sanguineus, is a vibrant and captivating species known for its striking coloration and active behavior. This species is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, where it is found in the wild, but it has also become a sought-after addition to saltwater aquariums due to its unique appearance and personality.
Adults typically display a bright red or maroon body with a white band behind the head, and juveniles often have a more muted coloration with a series of white spots. The transition from juvenile to adult coloration is gradual and can be a fascinating process to observe in the home aquarium.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 25 cm (10″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Social
- Solo
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusHogfishBodianus
- SpeciesSunrise wrasseBodianus sanguineus (Jordan & Evermann, 1903)
- SynonymsVerriculus sanguineus Jordan & Evermann, 1903
Care
Hawaiian Hogfish are considered moderately difficult to care for, primarily due to their size and dietary requirements. They can grow up to 10 inches in length, so a larger tank is necessary to accommodate their swimming needs. They are also known to be somewhat aggressive, particularly towards smaller tank mates or those with similar body shapes.
A varied diet is crucial for the health of the Hawaiian Hogfish. They are carnivorous and should be fed a mix of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and marine fish flesh. It's important to ensure that they are receiving a balanced diet to maintain their vibrant coloration and overall health.
Reproduction
In the wild, Hawaiian Hogfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and have the ability to change to male later in life. This change is often triggered by social cues or the absence of a dominant male. In the aquarium, breeding Hawaiian Hogfish is quite challenging and not commonly attempted by hobbyists.
Habitat
The Hawaiian Hogfish is typically found in coral reef environments at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 60 meters. They prefer areas with plenty of live rock and crevices for hiding and foraging. In the aquarium, providing a similar environment with ample rockwork and hiding places is essential for their well-being.
Their natural distribution is limited to the Hawaiian archipelago, making them a geographically isolated species with no widespread distribution.