Lyretail Hogfish (Bodianus anthioides)
Fish in the family Labridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
Bodianus anthioides displays a striking bicolored pattern with bright yellow coloration on the anterior half of the body and upper head, contrasting with deep burgundy to purple on the posterior body and tail. The dorsal and anal fins are edged in yellow. This wrasse exhibits a streamlined, laterally compressed body typical of Labridae, with a pointed snout and the characteristic lyrate (lyre-shaped) caudal fin that gives the species its common name.
Diet and feeding
In captivity, feed high-quality meaty foods including finely chopped marine fish, crustaceans (mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp), and herbivorous wrasse-specific preparations. Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions to match natural grazing and predatory behavior.
Difficulty and care for the Lyretail Hogfish
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Parasitic infections (ich, velvet), bacterial infections, nutritional deficiencies if not fed varied diet
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the East African coast through the Great Barrier Reef to the Hawaiian Islands and Micronesia. Found in coral reef environments at depths of 5–60 meters.
Log Lyretail Hogfish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Lyretail Hogfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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