The Diana’s Hogfish, Fourspot Hogfish, Indian Diana’s Hogfish, Polkadot Grouper, Red Hogfish – Bodianus diana – is a captivating marine fish known for its vibrant colors and distinctive markings. This species, belonging to the Wrasse family (Labridae), is a popular choice for both home aquariums and public exhibits, drawing attention with its unique personality and captivating appearance.
Description & Characteristics
Bodianus diana is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 16.9 cm. Its body is adorned with a striking combination of red, orange, and white, creating a visually appealing pattern. The fish’s head is typically reddish-orange, transitioning into a bright red body with numerous white spots. These spots are smaller and more densely packed on the anterior portion of the body, gradually becoming larger and more widely spaced towards the caudal fin. Bodianus diana also possesses a distinctive black spot located just above its pectoral fin, contributing to its easily recognizable appearance.
Habitat and Occurrence
Bodianus diana exhibits a preference for coral reefs and rocky areas, typically found at depths ranging from 6.0 to 80.0 meters. These environments provide ample shelter and food sources, making them ideal for the species’ survival. They are commonly encountered in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically in the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean. This geographic range encompasses a variety of marine zones, including coral reefs, rocky outcrops, and seagrass meadows, making them a versatile inhabitant of these ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Bodianus diana is scientifically classified as follows: it belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Labridae. This classification places it within the group of ray-finned fishes, a diverse and abundant group of aquatic vertebrates. The order Eupercaria incertae sedis is a placeholder for groups that haven’t been definitively placed within the order Eupercaria, reflecting ongoing research and discoveries in fish taxonomy. The Labridae family, commonly known as wrasses, is characterized by their vibrant colors, elongated bodies, and specialized dentition.
Feeding
Bodianus diana is an omnivorous species with a varied diet. Their feeding habits include consuming small crustaceans, worms, and algae. In captivity, they are often fed a diet of brine shrimps, flakes, frozen food (large sort), and mysis.
Image References