Blackbar Hogfish

The Blackbar Hogfish (Bodianus speciosus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking coloration, bold black bar across the body, unique hogfish shape, and active swimming behavior.

Males typically display brighter coloration with more intense contrast in their patterns, while females/juveniles are duller in tone, with more subtle markings until they mature.

They reach about 12–14 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 180 gallons. Provide ample live rock for hiding spots, open swimming space, and a sandy substrate, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4). A secure lid is essential, as this species may jump.

Their diet should consist of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, copepods, and high-quality pellets, with occasional supplementation of algae-based foods. With proper care, this fish makes a striking centerpiece and active addition to a large marine aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.