Bodianus Mesothorax

The Bodianus Mesothorax, commonly known as the Splitlevel Hogfish, is a visually striking wrasse notable for its dramatic split coloration pattern. The front half of the body is typically a rich dark brown to black, while the posterior half transitions to a lighter golden or yellowish tone, creating a sharp contrast that gives the species its common names.

In the wild, this species inhabits coral reefs and rocky slopes throughout the Indo-Pacific at depths of 10 to 40 meters. It is commonly found among coral formations where it forages for a variety of invertebrates including crabs, snails, worms, and small sea urchins. Its strong jaws and protruding teeth are well-adapted for crushing hard-shelled prey, making it an effective invertebrate predator.

In captivity, the Splitlevel Hogfish requires a minimum tank of 75 gallons and adapts reasonably well to aquarium conditions. However, unlike some of its more mild-mannered relatives, this species tends toward semi-aggressive behavior and is notably not reef-safe due to its aggressive pursuit of ornamental invertebrates. It is best suited for FOWLR systems with other moderately aggressive species.