Bodianus frenchii

Datasheet

General Description

The Foxfish, scientifically known as Bodianus frenchii, belongs to the Labridae family. These fish, commonly referred to as Hogfish, are recognized for their unique hunting behavior where they use their snout to search for food in the substrate. Their characteristic of blowing water down into the sand makes them distinct, and in their natural habitat, they tend to follow other fish that have disturbed the substrate.

Aquarium Suitability

The Foxfish is considered suitable for aquariums, but with caution. They are hardy creatures that can adapt to various conditions, but they require a large tank, a minimum of 1500 liters when fully grown. It is crucial to provide hiding spots within live rocks and ample space for swimming to ensure their well-being.

Demands, Care and Hardiness

Hogfish are hardy creatures that can adapt well to different environments. However, they can be aggressive towards other species, especially more docile ones or those resembling themselves. They thrive best when they have plenty of space to swim and hide. Therefore, it is essential to provide adequate hiding places and swimming room in the aquarium setup.

Reef Suitability

The Foxfish is considered reef-safe with caution. They may pose a threat to various invertebrates such as worms, snails, small bivalves, and crustaceans when fully grown. Therefore, careful consideration must be made when keeping them in a reef tank with other species.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Foxfish, ensure there are sufficient hiding places, particularly between live rocks. Additionally, provide a spacious tank with ample room for swimming activities. Maintaining a well-established substrate will mimic their natural habitat and promote their hunting behavior.

Behaviour

Hogfish are known to be effective invertebrate hunters, preying on crustaceans, sea urchins, and worms within the aquarium. They exhibit a unique foraging behavior by searching through the sand for food, which can cloud the water and disrupt detritus. In the presence of aggressive species, they may hide for extended periods.

Feeding and Diet

The recommended diet for Foxfish includes larger crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, as well as other invertebrates such as small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia. They are opportunistic feeders and will consume a variety of foods offered to them in the aquarium.

Habitat and Distribution

The Foxfish, Bodianus frenchii, is commonly found in the waters of Australia and New Zealand. They thrive in rocky reef areas where they can search for food in the substrate. Their behavior of following other fish that disturb the sand aids in their foraging efforts and sustains their natural diet.