Triggerfish, Queen
Food Quality:
Avg. Length
14-24in
Avg. Weight
2-5lbs
World Record
14lbs 3oz
FL Record
14lbs 3oz
View Regulations
Scientific Name
Balistes vetula
Common Names
Painted triggerfish, Queen turbot, Nassau turbot, Old wife, Cochino
Description
The Queen Triggerfish can be distinguished from other triggerfish by their interesting coloration, which can include a range of purple, blue, yellow and green. Defining the fish is a yellow chin and a pair of blue bars on the front of the fish, as well as several bluish lines around the eyes.
Habitat & Behaviour
Queen Triggerfish are often found in rocky or coral areas, supplying them with shelter in the form of crevasses that they wedge themselves into using their spine dorsal fin. They can also be found in underwater grass and are known to travel alone or in schools. Equipped with strong jaws Queen Triggerfish are often referred to as coral reef workers, who shift rocks and adjust coral looking for prey and attracting scavengers.
Natural Prey
Queen Triggerfish are equipped with strong jaws, aiding them in feeding on crustaceans and invertebrates, especially crabs, lobsters and urchins. Most of this activity takes place during the sunlit hours. They have been be known to get creative; knocking over rocks or picking up urchins (their favorite food) dropping them and devouring their unprotected bottoms while they descend.
Handling Tips
Lay in palm of your hand, easy to handle. Watch out for its ‘trigger’ spine on its back. Have a parrot like beak, keep fingers away from mouth – can nip you. Small spine but generally not a handling concern.
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