Masuda's Hogfish (Bodianus masudai)
Fish in the family Labridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
Masuda's Hogfish is a small wrasse with elongated body shape and a distinctive color pattern. It displays predominantly white/cream coloration on the head and anterior body, with deep red or burgundy coloring on the rear half and tail. The species has the characteristic compressed body and pointed snout typical of the Labridae family.
Diet and feeding
Feeds on small crustaceans, small fish, and invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, offer quality meaty foods including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, small pieces of fish, and specialized carnivore preparations. May benefit from vitamin-enriched foods.
Difficulty and care for the Masuda's Hogfish
Moderate difficulty. Masuda's Hogfish is a deep-water species requiring careful acclimation and stable water conditions. It can be somewhat aggressive toward smaller tankmates and similar-sized fish, and may nip at invertebrates despite being considered reef-safe with caution.
Common health issues
Parasitic infections, ich, loss of appetite during acclimation
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including waters around the Philippines, Indonesia, and other parts of Southeast Asia. Found in deeper reef environments, typically at depths of 40-200+ meters.
Log Masuda's 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 Masuda's Hogfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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