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Little Shop of Coral

Spanish Hogfish

Spanish Hogfish

$69.99 CAD
$69.99 CAD
Sale Sold out

Spanish Hogfish

Bodianus rufus

The Spanish Hogfish is a vibrant and active marine fish known for its striking coloration, typically featuring a mix of red, orange, and yellow tones with distinctive markings. Its bold appearance and energetic swimming behavior make it a standout addition to larger marine aquariums.

This species is hardy and adaptable but best suited for aquarists with some experience due to its size and semi-aggressive nature.

Care & Temperament

  • Difficulty: Intermediate
  • Temperament: Semi-aggressive
  • Adult Size: Up to 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)
  • Minimum Aquarium: 100+ gallons
  • Tank Placement: Mid to lower levels
  • Activity: Very active

Spanish Hogfish require ample swimming space along with rockwork for hiding. They are curious and constantly on the move, making them an engaging species to observe.

Diet

The Spanish Hogfish is a carnivore that requires a protein-rich diet.

  • Meaty foods (shrimp, mysis, krill)
  • Chopped seafood
  • High-quality frozen and prepared foods

A varied diet supports vibrant coloration and overall health.

Tankmates & Compatibility

Spanish Hogfish can be kept with a variety of fish but may show aggression toward smaller or more timid species.

Good tankmates include:

  • Tangs
  • Angelfish
  • Larger wrasses
  • Other semi-aggressive fish

Use caution with:

  • Small fish
  • Crustaceans (may be eaten)
  • Very passive species

Providing adequate space and structure helps reduce territorial behavior.

Reef Safe

No

Spanish Hogfish are not considered reef safe, as they may prey on shrimp, crabs, and other invertebrates.

Suggested Parameters

  • Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
  • Salinity: 1.024–1.026
  • pH: 8.0–8.4
  • Alkalinity: 7–11 dKH
  • Ammonia: 0 ppm
  • Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: Ideally below 10–20 ppm

Stable water quality and adequate filtration are important due to this species' active nature and feeding habits.

What You Are Buying

You are purchasing one Spanish Hogfish (Bodianus rufus). Coloration and pattern may vary between individuals.

Health & Acclimation Notes

  • Acclimate slowly to reduce stress
  • Provide ample swimming space
  • Feed a varied, protein-rich diet
  • Monitor compatibility with smaller tankmates

Why We Love It

The Spanish Hogfish is a bold and colorful fish that brings energy and personality to marine aquariums. Its active nature and striking appearance make it a great choice for larger, fish-focused systems.

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LIGHT

LOW: Place coral at the bottom of the tank. Depending on the type, coral may need to be placed off sand and therefore mounted on a ceramic disc of piece of rock.

MEDIUM: Place coral at mid-range of the tank. Best placed/glued on top of a rock scape at mid-range height. 

HIGH: Place coral from mid range to just below water level. SPS coral are shallow growing so they require and are able to tolerate intense light.

FLOW

LOW: Most soft coral do well with a small, gentle pulse. There are certain corals that can even be placed in areas of indirect flow, meaning places aside a rock structure or set into a entrance to a cave style space.

MEDIUM: Many LPS types of coral prefer medium pulse current. Most Euphyllia or corals that have more tissue structure connected to their skeleton, don’t like to be in a high flow area like the direct flow of the wave pump.

HIGH: Similar to high light, SPS enjoy being in some heavy current. Most LPS and SPS that branch encrust or plate prefer high flow that simulates the top water waves.

SKILL

ENTRY: While some may say beginner level, "Entry" is a good term to be used when starting out in the world of corals and marine life. Prior to adding livestock, you want to ensure that your reef has the proper parameters including zero levels of ammonia and nitrite. Seeing traces of nitrate in your waters is a good sign - just keep them at a lower level of 2ppm to 10ppm. Maintaining correct temperature and salinity are a huge factor to stable parameters. Starting to monitor your PH, alkalinity, calcium and magnesium is a great habit to get into to keep a successful reef.

While some soft coral don’t require too much light, having a proper reef light that puts out the proper pars is very important. You'll also want to have a good amount of flow and protected rock areas, as placing corals in their happy spot is ideal for success.

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