Splitlevel Hogfish (Bodianus mesothorax)
Fish in the family Labridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
Bodianus mesothorax is a wrasse (Labridae) displaying striking two-tone coloration: the anterior body and head are bright orange-red, while the posterior body transitions to yellow-green or olive-yellow. Adults exhibit a characteristic "split level" appearance with a sharp color boundary mid-body. Juveniles are more uniformly colored and less vivid than adults.
Diet and feeding
Splitlevel Hogfish are carnivorous and should be fed small crustaceans (shrimp, copepods), frozen mysis shrimp, marine-based flake and pellet foods, and occasional meaty frozen foods. Feed 1–2 times daily with portions appropriate to body size.
Difficulty and care for the Splitlevel Hogfish
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Hole-in-the-Head Disease, Columnaris Disease
Origin and habitat
Western Atlantic, from Bermuda and the Bahamas south to Brazil, including the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. Typically found on coral and rocky reefs at depths of 30–100 feet.
Log Splitlevel 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 Splitlevel Hogfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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