Got a photo? Identify fish instantly with the Fishby app.
Open the appDescription
Bodianus opercularis, commonly known as the Yellowstripe hogfish, is a small, vibrant wrasse species belonging to the family Labridae. It is characterized by its distinctive coloration, featuring a prominent yellow stripe running along its body. This species is typically found in coral reef environments, where it plays a role in the benthic ecosystem.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- The body is predominantly reddish-pink to reddish-brown dorsally, fading to white or pale pink ventrally. A prominent, bright yellow to orange stripe extends from the snout, through the eye, and along the lateral line to the caudal peduncle. The fins are typically reddish, with the caudal fin often having a yellowish tint. Juveniles may exhibit more pronounced black spots or markings that fade with age.
- Scale type
- cycloid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Bright yellow to orange lateral stripe, Reddish body coloration, Small black spot on the operculum (gill cover) in some individuals or life stages, Pointed snout
- Dorsal fin
- Single dorsal fin with 12 spines and 9-10 soft rays. The spinous portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.
- Tail fin
- Truncate to slightly rounded caudal fin.
- Pectoral fin
- Pectoral fins are relatively small and rounded.
- Distinctive fins
- Pelvic fins are thoracic, positioned below the pectoral fins.
Identification Tips
Lateral Stripe
Look for the distinctive bright yellow or orange stripe running from the snout to the tail. This is the most reliable identifying feature.
Body Coloration
Note the reddish-pink to reddish-brown dorsal coloration contrasting with the paler ventral side.
Size
Adults typically reach a maximum length of about 15 cm (6 inches).
Habitat
Found in coral and rocky reef environments, which helps narrow down identification among similar species.
Habitat
- Water type
- saltwater
- Depth
- Typically found at depths ranging from 10 to 60 meters (33 to 197 feet), though occasionally deeper.
- Environment
- Associated with coral reefs, rocky reefs, and rubble zones. Prefers areas with abundant hiding places and crevices.
- Geographic range
- Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, Maldives, Indonesia, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and parts of the Western Pacific, extending to Australia and some Pacific islands.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: intermediate
- Temperament: semi-aggressive
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: 75 gallons
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- pH level: 8.1-8.4
- Hardness: 8-12 dKH
- Compatibility: Can be kept with other semi-aggressive to aggressive fish of similar size. Avoid keeping with very small or docile species. May be aggressive towards conspecifics unless introduced as a mated pair in a very large tank.
- Special requirements: Requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. A sand bed is beneficial as they may occasionally burrow. Good water quality and stable parameters are crucial.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Not applicable; present year-round in its natural habitat.
- Market price: N/A (not a significant food fish)
- Commercial importance: low
- Taste: N/A
- Texture: N/A
- Nutritional value: N/A
Key Facts
Reef Cleanerbehavior
Yellowstripe hogfish are known to act as cleaner fish, removing parasites from other larger fish species, particularly when they are juveniles.
Protogynous Hermaphroditebehavior
Like many wrasses, Bodianus opercularis is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning individuals are born female and can later change sex to male.
Diurnal Foragerbehavior
This species is active during the day, foraging for small invertebrates among the coral and rocky substrates.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: not recommended
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions are required beyond standard fish handling practices to avoid injury from fin spines or accidental bites. Not known to be venomous or possess any harmful toxins.
Similar Species
Axilspot Hogfish
Bodianus axillaris
Bodianus axillaris has a more prominent black spot at the base of the pectoral fin and lacks the continuous yellow lateral stripe of B. opercularis. Its body coloration is also generally darker with more distinct white markings.
Eclipse Hogfish
Bodianus mesothorax
Bodianus mesothorax has a distinct dark band or 'saddle' across its mid-body and a more pronounced yellow posterior body and tail, differing from the continuous yellow stripe of B. opercularis.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Labriformes
- Family
- Labridae
- Genus
- Bodianus
- Species
- Bodianus opercularis
Explore Yellowstripe hogfish
Identify fish anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full species details, and more.