Goldspot Pigfish

Bodianus Perdito
Goldspot Pigfish - Marinewise © 2024 MarineWise

Quick Facts

Scientific name Bodianus Perdito
Other names Goldenspot Hogfish, Goldenspot Pigfish, Goldenspot Wrasse, Goldspot Hogfish, Orange Threadfin Tuskfish
Size Up to 53 cm (20.8 in)
Weight Up to 3 kg (6.6 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Coastal waters amongst sandy or rubble areas & deeper rocky & coral reefs
Depth Range 5 - 60 m (196 ft)
Goldspot Pigfish Distribution

Interesting Info

  • The Goldspot Pigfish is found along the eastern coast of Australia, from southern Queensland to northern New South Wales, including the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding areas. There are reports of them along the central coast of Western Australia.
  • They have a robust body with a large head and distinct coloration. They have a reddish-brown to pinkish body with yellow spots covering their upper body, and they have a prominent golden spot or patch near their pectoral fin.
  • Goldspot Pigfish are carnivorous and feed on small crustaceans, molluscs, and other benthic invertebrates found within their reef habitat.
  • They are typically found in small groups or solitary. However, during the breeding season, they may form temporary aggregations near spawning sites.
  • Goldspot Pigfish in Australia tend to have a breeding season that occurs during the warmer months, usually from late spring to early summer.
  • They play a important role in maintaining the ecological balance of coral reefs and rocky habitats. They contribute to the control of benthic invertebrate populations and serve as prey for larger predatory species.
  • Their estimated lifespan is between 6 – 8 years.
Species Interaction

Recreational Fishing, Snorkeling & Diving

Goldspot Pigfish are occasionally targeted by recreational anglers. Their willingness to take a variety of baits and lures makes them a desirable catch for some anglers. They can be fascinating to observe in the wild for divers and snorkelers. Their vibrant coloration and distinct markings make them visually appealing. They are generally shy and tend to seek shelter in crevices and caves within the reef structure, so careful observation may be required to spot them.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Perciformes

Family: Labridae

Genus: Bodianus

Species: Bodianus Perdito

Conservation Status

The conservation status of the Goldspot Pigfish in Australia is currently listed as “Least Concern” according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, localised threats, such as overfishing or habitat degradation, can still impact their populations.

Fish Taste Quality

Goldspot Pigfish are considered to be good to eat. It has firm, white flesh with a mild and sweet flavour. When cooked, the meat retains its moisture and tends to flake nicely.

Taste Rating: 3/5

How to catch
Goldspot Pigfish

Catch Difficulty: Intermediate

Tackle: Running Sinker Rig

Bait: Crab, Fresh cut flesh baits, Pilchards, Prawns, Squid, Worms, Soft plastics

Technique: Keep bait close to the reef/structure

Popularity: Targeted

Recreational Viewing
- Snorkeling & Scuba

Finding: Intermediate

Temperament: Shy

Location: Inner Reef, Outer Reef, Caves, Lagoon

Danger: None