Hogfish

(Lachnolaimus maximus)

 

 

Maturity at: 18 cm in length

Max Published Size: 91 cm and 24 pounds

TnT Record: 15 pounds (unofficial)

TnT Season: Year round

IUCN status: Vulnerable

 

 

General Information: Normally called hog snapper, the hogfish is not really a snapper but a wrasse.  Large and economically valuable. Protogynous hermaphrodite, which means they are female when young and are capable to change into males when older.  Adults are found over open bottoms or coral reef areas, they often like it where gorgonians are abundant. Feeds on snails and bivalves, also crabs and sea urchins. Flesh highly esteemed; marketed fresh and frozen. They show great adaptation to captivity.  Mainly caught in fishpots and spearfishing.