Hog Snapper

Scientific Name:
Lachnolaimus maximus

Vernacular Names:
Es/Sp: Pargo gallo, Vieja
Fr/Fr: Cochon de mer
In/En: Hogfish, Hog snapper
Pt: Peixe-porco
Other: Pez cochino (Spanish), Pesce maiale (Italian)

Local Names:
Cuba: Gallo, Doncella
México: Pargo gallo, Doncella
Puerto Rico: Vieja, Gallo
Venezuela: Vieja, Donzella
Bahamas: Hogfish

Commercial Names: Hogfish, Hog snapper, Pez cochino

Simile of International Trade: Premium, highly valued demersal reef fish

Fishing Season: Available year-round, with availability and catch rates highest from fall through spring in many regions.

Geographical Distribution: Western Atlantic: Common from North Carolina (USA), throughout the Gulf of Mexico, the Bahamas, Caribbean Sea, to northern South America and Brazil. Most abundant around Florida Keys, the Bahamas, and the broader Caribbean.

Habitat and Biology: Demersal, reef-associated species found over coral reefs, rock outcrops, and sandy bottoms, usually at depths of 3–30 meters but can be found up to 90 meters.

Length: Commonly caught individuals are 35–60 cm (14–24 in), but can reach up to 91 cm (36 in). Maximum recorded weight is about 11 kg (24 lb). Sexual maturity is reached at about 30 cm (12 in).