How to Identify Red-barred hogfish

To identify Red-barred hogfish (Bodianus diana), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Adults: Reddish-brown to orange body with 3-4 prominent vertical red bars or blotches on the posterior body and caudal peduncle. A large black spot is often present on the dorsal fin and sometimes on the anal fin. Head may have irregular red lines or spots. Juveniles: Often bright yellow or orange with large black spots on the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, and sometimes on the body. A distinct white or yellow spot is typically present on the upper caudal peduncle.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Prominent red vertical bars on the posterior body (adults), Large black spot on the dorsal fin (adults), Distinctive white/yellow spot on upper caudal peduncle (juveniles), Thick lips, Canine teeth at the front of the jaws

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 12 spines and 10-11 soft rays. The spinous portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly rounded caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large and rounded pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are relatively long and pointed. Anal fin has 3 spines and 11-12 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Adult Coloration

   Look for the reddish-brown to orange body with 3-4 distinct vertical red bars on the rear half of the body and caudal peduncle. A prominent black spot on the dorsal fin is a key identifier.

2. 2

   Juvenile Coloration

   Juveniles are bright yellow or orange with large black spots on the fins and a characteristic white or yellow spot on the upper caudal peduncle.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Elongated, somewhat compressed body typical of hogfish species.

4. 4

   Mouth and Teeth

   Observe the relatively thick lips and the presence of prominent canine teeth at the front of the jaws, characteristic of Bodianus species.

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