Description
A striking and relatively rare hogfish featuring a red to pink body with bold white vertical “candy cane” bands. Juveniles are especially vivid, while adults become slightly deeper in tone but retain the banded pattern. Like other hogfish, it has an elongated body and a curious, active personality, often seen inspecting rockwork for food.
Lighting
Moderate to strong lighting
(Enhances red and white banding)
Placement (Aquarium Zone)
Mid to lower reef zones
Requires rock structures, caves, and open swimming space
Temperature
24–28°C (75–82°F)
Salinity
1.020–1.025 SG
pH
8.1–8.4
Alkalinity
8–12 dKH
Diet
Carnivore
Mysis shrimp
Krill
Chopped seafood (shrimp, fish, squid)
Small crustaceans and invertebrates
Adult Size (up to)
~18–22 cm (7–9 inches)
Care Level
Intermediate
(Generally hardy but requires proper diet and space)
Compatibility
Semi-aggressive
Reef-safe with caution (may eat small shrimp, crabs, snails)
Best with medium to large, active tankmates
Avoid very small fish and delicate invertebrates
Can coexist with other wrasse species if tank is large enough
