Split-level hogfish facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Split-level hogfish |
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| Specimen from the northeast coast, Taiwan | |
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The split-level hogfish (scientific name: Bodianus mesothorax) is a colorful fish. It is also known by many other names, like the blackbelt hogfish or coral hogfish. This fish lives in the warm waters of the western Pacific Ocean and the eastern Indian Ocean. It belongs to a group of fish called wrasses.
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About the Split-Level Hogfish
The split-level hogfish has a unique look. Its body has a clear black band that goes diagonally. This band separates its purplish head from its whitish or yellowish back half.
Young Fish vs. Adults
Young split-level hogfish are called juveniles. They are dark purple with two rows of bright yellow spots. They look a bit like young axilspot hogfish. However, axilspot hogfish have white spots instead of yellow ones.
When young split-level hogfish grow to about 5 to 6 centimeters (2 to 2.4 inches) long, their colors change. They quickly transform into the adult pattern in just a few weeks. It's rare to see a fish in between these two stages.
Adult split-level hogfish are different from adult axilspot hogfish. They have that distinct dark diagonal band. Also, they do not have spots on their dorsal fin (top fin) or anal fin (bottom fin). This fish can grow up to 25 centimeters (10 inches) long.
Where Split-Level Hogfish Live
The split-level hogfish is found in a wide area. In the eastern Indian Ocean, you can find them as far west as the Nicobar Islands. In the western Pacific Ocean, they live from Japan in the north down to Australia in the south. They are also found as far east as Fiji.
Life in the Ocean Reefs
Split-level hogfish usually live on reefs. They are found at depths from 5 to 40 meters (16 to 130 feet). However, they rarely go deeper than 20 meters (65 feet).
Young split-level hogfish like to hide in caves within the reef. Adult fish play an important role in the reef ecosystem. They help other fish by eating parasites off their bodies. This is like a cleaning service for other reef fish!
Split-Level Hogfish in Aquariums
This colorful fish is popular in the aquarium trade. Many split-level hogfish are brought to aquariums from countries like the Philippines and Indonesia.
