Description
A boldly patterned reef triggerfish with a pale grey/yellow body, dark facial stripes, and a distinctive black crescent (“lunula”) near the tail base. Highly active, territorial, and strong-jawed, built for crushing hard-shelled prey.
Lighting
Moderate to strong reef lighting
(Adaptable, but prefers well-lit reef environments)
Placement (Aquarium Zone)
Lower to mid-water column, open swimming space
Needs rockwork for shelter but also large open areas
Temperature
24–28°C (75–82°F)
Salinity
1.020–1.025 SG
pH
8.1–8.4
Alkalinity
8–12 dKH
Diet
Carnivore
Crustaceans (shrimp, crabs)
Mollusks (clams, snails)
Meaty marine foods (squid, fish pieces, frozen carnivore preparations)
Adult Size (up to)
~28 cm (11 inches)
Care Level
Advanced
(Due to aggression, tank size needs, and strong feeding behavior)
Compatibility
Semi-aggressive to highly aggressive
Not reef-safe (will eat invertebrates)
Best kept solitary or with large, robust tankmates
Avoid small fish, shrimp, snails, and peaceful species
