Axilspot Hogfish, Bodianus axillaris (Bennett, 1831)
Axil Hog
Introduction
The Axilspot Hogfish is mainly found in the Indo-Pacific and it is also common to see them kept in aquariums.
Identification
Adult Axilspot Hogfish are red-brown anteriorly, grading to white posteriorly. They have a large black spot on the pectoral fin base, on the soft dorsal fin and on the anal fin. Juveniles are black with two rows of large white spots.
Distribution
The species has a widespread Indo-Pacific distribution.
In Australia it is recorded from the south-western coast of Western Australia, around the tropical north of the country and south to the central coast of New South Wales.
The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Click on the map for detailed information. Source: Atlas of Living Australia.
Further reading
- Allen, G.R. & R. Swainston. 1988. The Marine Fishes of North-Western Australia. A Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Western Australian Museum. Pp. 201.
- Kuiter, R.H. 1996. Guide to Sea Fishes of Australia. New Holland. Pp. 433.
- Randall, J.E., Allen, G.R. & R.C. Steene. 1997. Fishes of the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea. Crawford House Press. Pp. 557.