Triggerfish
- Scientific Name: Balistoides viridescens
- Types: Largest species of triggerfish, known for its territorial behavior.
- Habitat: Coral reefs, coastal waters, and sandy seabeds at depths of 5–50 meters (16–164 feet).
- Diet: Carnivorous; feeds on sea urchins, mollusks, crustaceans, small fish, coral, and algae.
- Reproduction: Sexual; external fertilization. Females lay eggs in sandy nests, and males aggressively guard the nests.
- Spotting Tips: Look for a yellow-green body with dark facial markings, black-bordered scales, and powerful teeth used for breaking shells. Avoid during breeding season due to aggressive behavior.
- Countries: Found in Indo-Pacific regions, including the Red Sea, Maldives, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, Philippines, and Japan.
- Scientific Name: Balistoides conspicillum
- Types: One of the most colorful triggerfish, known for its striking polka-dot pattern.
- Habitat: Coral reefs and rocky coastal areas at depths of 1–75 meters (3–246 feet).
- Diet: Carnivorous; feeds on crustaceans, mollusks, sea urchins, and small fish.
- Reproduction: Sexual; external fertilization. Females lay eggs in nests, and males guard them aggressively.
- Spotting Tips: Look for a black body with large white polka dots, a yellow mouth, and a leopard-like pattern on the upper half.
- Countries: Found in Indo-Pacific regions, including the Maldives, Indonesia, Philippines, Great Barrier Reef, and Seychelles.
- Scientific Name: Balistes vetula
- Types: One of the most colorful triggerfish, known for its vibrant blue-green body and elongated trailing fins.
- Habitat: Coral reefs, rocky seabeds, and sandy coastal waters at depths of 5–50 meters (16–164 feet).
- Diet: Carnivorous; feeds on sea urchins, crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish.
- Reproduction: Sexual; external fertilization. Females lay eggs in sandy nests, and males protect the nests aggressively.
- Scientific Name: Rhinecanthus aculeatus
- Types: Also called the Lagoon Triggerfish, known for its abstract, Picasso-like color patterns.
- Habitat: Shallow lagoon reefs, coral reefs, and sandy seabeds at depths of 1–50 meters (3–164 feet).
- Diet: Omnivorous; feeds on crustaceans, mollusks, small fish, sea urchins, and algae.
- Reproduction: Sexual; external fertilization. Females lay eggs in sandy nests, and males aggressively guard them.
- Spotting Tips: Look for a white body with blue, black, and yellow markings, a dark stripe through the eye, and a small but powerful mouth.
- Countries: Found in Indo-Pacific regions, including Hawaii, Maldives, Indonesia, Philippines, Great Barrier Reef, and the Red Sea.