Care
The Coral Hogfish is known from the Nicobar Islands, eastwards to Tonga, north to Japan and south to Elizabeth Reef and Sydney in eastern Australia and New Caledonia. Here, these fish inhabit coral-rich outer reef slopes to depths of 40m (131ft). This is a characterful, active species suitable for spacious fish-only aquaria, and it is a fish that remains attractive both as a juvenile and as an adult. Juvenile fish, which are burgundy-brown with several bright yellow blotches, are often observed cleaning other fish in captivity, but they are facultative cleaners and not obligatory like some species. This hardy fish may be a little shy when first introduced, but it will soon gain much confidence, becoming a very outgoing aquarium occupant. As this hogfish attains a moderate size and is a powerful swimmer, the tank must offer plenty of space, plus hiding places amongst large caves/rock piles in the decor, along with a reasonable amount of substrate to root around in. Be sure to keep on top of water quality; powerful filtration, brisk circulation and a high level of oxygenation are essential for this voracious eater. Coral Hogfish are fiercely territorial and so it is recommended to keep only one specimen per tank, and not with any other hogfish species, or with any small, docile fish. The most suitable tankmates really are other medium-large, moderately aggressive species that can look after themselves. To avoid any tussles at feeding time, add the food to several places in the aquarium at the same time. May also be seen on sale as Black Belt Hogfish, Eclipse Hogfish, or Split-level Hogfish.
Feeding
Carnivorous. Will readily accept most meaty frozen foods such as Mysis shrimp, krill, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, chopped prawns/cockle/mussel/whitebait etc. Juvenile fish will accept flake, adults not so much. Feed small amounts 2 or 3 times per day.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in the home aquarium.
