Triggerfish, Queen

Food Quality:

Triggerfish, Queen

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.