Striped pigfish
📖 Overview
Striped pigfish (Bodianus izuensis) is a ray-finned fish of the family Labridae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in reef-associated environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 10 cm. It occurs at depths between 30 and 70 metres. With a trophic level of 3.4, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9 - 10; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 12. This species is distinguished by the following characters: D XII,9-10; caudal-fin rays 9-10 + 2 + 10; pectoral-fin rays ii, 14-15; 30 lateral-line scales; 4-4.5 scales above lateral line; 10.5-12 scales below lateral line; about 8-10 predorsal scales; 14-18 total gill rakers; moderate depth in body and caudal peduncle; short snout; scaly basal sheath on dorsal and anal fins ½–2 scales in depth; posterior corner of mouth just posterior to vertical through forward extent of orbit; upper jaw with the first prominent anterior canine slightly smaller than second; moderately developed canines on dental ridge in small individuals 2-10, less distinct in larger specimens; prominent canines at posterior end of jaw 1–2 (usually 2); lower jaw with first prominent anterior canine slightly more than half size of second; teeth in 2 or 3 series on dental ridge, forming single row; first series with 3–9 small canines becoming progressively longer posteriorly, originating immediately posterior to anterior canines; first series followed by 4–10 short canines in series, sometimes 2 slightly larger canines terminally; vomer 1 or 2 canines; pelvic fin distinctly not reaching anus . : fusiform / normal; Cross section: oval.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Striped pigfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 30 - 70 m , usually 30 - 35 m . Subtropical; 23°C - 26°C
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Striped pigfish is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Striped pigfish is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Striped pigfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Striped pigfish.
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 1 records indexed .
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