Hawaiian Hogfish

Bodianus bathycapros

The Hawaiian hogfish (Bodianus bathycapros) is a wrasse species endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. Adults reach 20-30 cm and display a reddish-pink to maroon body with a white or pale lower half and a distinctive dark spot on the dorsal fin. They are found on deeper rocky reefs, ledges, and drop-offs at depths of 20-100 meters, making them a reward for deeper recreational and technical dives. They feed on benthic invertebrates including crustaceans, mollusks, and echinoderms, which they pick from reef surfaces with their protrusible mouth. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, with larger individuals being male. Their Hawaiian endemism, attractive coloration, and association with deeper reef habitats make them a noteworthy sighting that experienced divers in Hawaii specifically seek out. They add a splash of color to the deeper reef environments where they are typically found.