Diana's hogfish, scientifically known as Bodianus diana, is a wrasse species found in the 🌊 Indian Ocean spanning from the African coast to the Nicobars and the Cocos-Keeling Islands. Contrary to earlier reports, its presence in the western 🌊 Pacific Ocean has been found to be erroneous. This species primarily resides on the outer side of coral reefs, typically between depths of 6 to 50 meters (20 to 164 feet), rarely exceeding 25 meters (82 feet). It can grow up to a maximum length of 16.9 centimeters (6.7 inches). Although it holds minor significance in local commercial fisheries, it is frequently observed in the aquarium trade.
Diana's hogfish is generally encountered in the Indo-Pacific region, including the 🌊 Red Sea and East Africa extending towards the 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands. Notably, juvenile individuals have been observed inhabiting the tentacles of the mushroom coral species Heliofungia actiniformis.
This species sustains itself primarily by consuming bottom-dwelling invertebrates such as molluscs and crustaceans. It is worth mentioning that juveniles have been observed engaging in cleaning behavior by removing parasites from other fish species.
Why it's threatened
Possible threats from reef degradation.
Threat classification from the IUCN Red List.
