Diana's Hogfish
Diana’s Hogfish, Bodianus diana, undergoes an interesting color transformation from juvenile to adult. As a juvenile, it is a dark maroon coloration with white spotting of various sizes. As with many other members of the Hogfish, juveniles will act as a cleaner of parasites for other fish. As an adult, coloration fades from a red dorsal area into a pink/yellow underside. The black spots on the fins and white spots on the body of this fish are much more prevalent as an adult. This Hogfish is considered aggressive as it will bother fish of equal or larger size and may pick on fish that are introduced after it has become established. As an eager carnivorous eater, it can be assertive when food is presented and must be fed multi-times daily. In the wild, the Diana’s Hogfish feeds on small crabs and shellfish, so caution must be used if placing the Hogfish in a reef aquarium. It may eat crabs, snails, or shrimp. It may also harm clam mantles. To its favor, it will also eat nuisance pests such as bristleworms and mantis shrimp. This active fish requires plenty of room to swim and is hardy and active. Meaty foods including live brine shrimp, black worms, or feeder shrimp are readily accepted.
Approximate Arrival Size for Hogfish: Small: 1 to 2 in.; Medium: 2.5 to 3.5 in.; Large: 4 to 5 in.
Detailed Information about this animal.
