Blackbelt Hogfish

Bodianus mesothorax is a species of wrasse native to the western Pacific Ocean and the eastern Indian Ocean. They can be found on reefs at depths of 5 to 40 m (16 to 131 ft), though rarely below 20 m (66 ft). Juveniles inhabit caves in the reef. Adults of this species clean other fish by eating parasites on the body of other reef fish. This species can reach a length of 25 cm (9.8 in). This species can be found in the aquarium trade.

Description

The Coral Hogfish undergoes a major change from juvenile to adult coloration, typical of many hogfish species. The juvenile is jet-black, with bright yellow around its eyes and on the body. The adult hogfish has a pink head, and then a vertical black stripe separating the pink head from the rest of the body, which is bright yellow. Black line from corner of mouth to rear edge of gill cover and yellow spot within a large black spot at pectoral fin base. Lacks black anal and dorsal fin spots. The change of coloration occurs quickly, at around 5-6 cm (2 inches).

Habitat and Distribution

The Split-level Hogfish lives in reefs of the Eastern Indian and the Western Pacific Oceans. It is commonly imported for the fish trade from the Philippines and Indonesia.