Axilspot Hogfish

Bodianus axillaris

Axilspot Hogfish (Bodianus axillaris) is a reef-associated wrasse found across the tropical Indo-Pacific. It is most often seen along outer reef slopes and drop-offs, where it forages on benthic invertebrates and small reef prey.

Saltwater

Axilspot Hogfish reference image — Diego Delso, cc-by-sa, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Adult with a distinct dark axil spot at the base of the pectoral fin
Robust hogfish body with a pointed snout and thick-lipped wrasse profile
Color pattern typically showing pale body tones with contrasting darker markings on the head and fins

Habitat

Coral and rocky reef slopes, lagoon reefs, and outer reef drop-offs in tropical Indo-Pacific waters, usually near structure from shallow reef edges to moderate depths.

Bait notes

Small pieces of squid, shrimp, crab, or cut fish can take it when allowed and when it is encountered by anglers. Small bottom jigs and tiny soft plastics fished near reef structure may also draw strikes, but it is more often an incidental catch than a primary target.

Behavior

An active diurnal forager that picks crustaceans, mollusks, worms, and other small reef invertebrates from the bottom and reef face. Like other hogfishes, it stays close to cover and is not typically targeted as a major gamefish.

Caution

Reef fish consumption risk can vary by location, including ciguatera in some tropical areas; local advisories matter. Handle carefully around hard reef structure and spines, and check local rules because reef hogfishes may be subject to size, bag, or collection limits.

Fishing notes

Fish tight to reef structure with light tackle and small baits, keeping presentations close to the bottom and out of the reef. Use caution around sharp coral and avoid forcing fish out of cover; local regulations may limit harvest or collection on reef species.