About Bodianus bilunulatus (Lacepède, 1801)
Taxonomy and Common Name
Bodianus bilunulatus, commonly known as the tarry hogfish, is a species of wrasse.
Geographical Range
It is native to waters ranging from the African coast of the Indian Ocean to the western Pacific Ocean, reaching as far as Japan, New Caledonia, and the Philippines.
Habitat and Depth Range
This species inhabits reef slopes at depths between 3 and 160 meters (9.8 to 524.9 feet), and adult individuals live in deeper waters than juveniles.
Size and Weight
Bodianus bilunulatus can grow up to 55 centimeters (22 inches) in total length, with a maximum recorded weight of 1.8 kilograms (4.0 pounds).
Human Relevance
It has minor importance to local commercial fisheries, is a popular game fish, and is also sold in the aquarium trade.
Additional Common Names
Other common names for this species include blackspot wrasse, crescent-banded hogfish, saddle-back hogfish, table boss, and tuxedo hogfish.
