Spanish Hogfish © Shedd Aquarium
The Spanish Hogfish, or Bodianus Rufus, can be found in the Atlantic Ocean from
Florida to Brazil. They belong to the Wrasse family. They grow to a maximum
of 10 inches. The fish has a vibrant yellow color with purple coloring at the
top. They live in rocky or coral reefs. They are known to swim in pacts. The juvenile Hogfish helps to rid other fish of parasites by eating them. Over,
as they become adults the Spanish Hogfish begin to eat crustaceans, mollusks,
sea urchins and other invertebrates. The Hogfish is able to hyperextend its
jaw in order to open its mouth much larger than normal. It can grow to a maximum
of 8-10 inches.
- Fishbase. "Bodianus rufus: Spanish hogfish" Fishbase.org.
- http://www.fishbase.org/summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=1067
- Sea World. "Animal Bytes: Spanish Hogfish."
- http://www.seaworld.org/wild-world/safari/virtual-aquarium/spanish-hogfish.htm
