FIRST RECORD OF THE BLACKBAR HOGFISH, BODIANUS SPECIOSUS (ACTINOPTERYGII: PERCIFORMES: LABRIDAE), IN THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA

Abstract

In this report, a very intriguing (although isolated) occurrence record of blackbar hogfish, Bodianus speciosus (Bowdich, 1825), is being made, at a significant distance from its known range. This record could be a useful addition to our understanding of alien species and their appearance in new areas, especially considering its relatively large size. The specimen was captured by spearfishing on a rocky bottom at the depth of 11 m in Horozgedigi Bay (Aegean Sea, Turkey, Aliaga, 38 degrees 44'57.5 '' N, 26 degrees 53'47.3 '' E). Standard length (SL), fork length (FL), total length (TL), total net weight (W), age, and stomach content were analysed. The specimen was a 4-year-old female and, measuring 267 mm TL and weighing 354.95 g. Examination of the stomach content indicated that the specimen was feeding on Mollusca and Crustacea. Based on our knowledge on the biology and distribution of the species, the best explanation for its presence in the eastern Mediterranean is translocation, presumably as an aquarium release, which is known, important introduction vector to the Mediterranean Sea.