The Spanish hogfish (Bodianus rufus) is a vibrant, reef-dwelling species found throughout the western Atlantic, especially in the Caribbean Sea and along the coasts of Florida, the Bahamas, and the Gulf of Mexico. Recognizable by its yellow and purple coloration, the Spanish hogfish inhabits coral reefs and rocky bottoms, where it feeds on small invertebrates. While not a primary target for large-scale commercial fisheries, it is commonly harvested by small-scale and artisanal fishers, particularly in countries such as Cuba, the Bahamas, and other Caribbean nations. These countries catch Spanish hogfish for local consumption and the aquarium trade, with the species valued for both its striking appearance and its role in local seafood markets. The fishing industry for Spanish hogfish is generally low-impact, but monitoring is important to ensure the sustainability of reef ecosystems where this species plays a role in maintaining ecological balance.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.