Clown Triggerfish

Clown Triggerfish

Balistoides conspicillum

Least Concern

Image generated by artificial intelligence

DESCRIPTION

The Clown Triggerfish is a vibrantly colored marine fish with a black body adorned with large white spots on its lower half, a yellow snout, and a distinctive net-like pattern on its back. It is a solitary and territorial species, often found in clear reef slopes and near drop-offs where it feeds on benthic invertebrates. Known for its strong teeth, it can grow up to 50 cm in length and has a lifespan of up to 20 years in optimal conditions.

Max Length 50 cm
Max Weight 3.3 kg
Lifespan 8 - 20 years
Habitat Underwater cave, coastal zone, deep water, and coral reef
Depth Range 1 - 75 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Solitary

Destinations to spot Clown Triggerfish

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Clown Triggerfish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Clown Triggerfish

Where can you see the Clown Triggerfish?

The Clown Triggerfish can be seen at 31 dive destinations in 8 countries. The best spots include Addu Atoll (Maldives), Aliwal Shoal (South Africa), Ari Atoll (Maldives), Baa Atoll (Maldives), and Brothers Islands (Egypt).

What is the best time to see the Clown Triggerfish?

The Clown Triggerfish is most often seen at Tubbataha Reefs from March to June.

Can you see the Clown Triggerfish all year round?

Yes. At Gili Islands, South Ari Atoll, and South Malé Atoll, the Clown Triggerfish is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Clown Triggerfish in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Clown Triggerfish at Addu Atoll, Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, Fuvahmulah, North Male Atoll, and South Ari Atoll.

Where can you see the Clown Triggerfish in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can see the Clown Triggerfish at Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, Elphinstone Reef, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh.

Where can you see the Clown Triggerfish in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Clown Triggerfish at Gili Islands, Lembeh Strait, Nusa Penida, and Raja Ampat.

How big does the Clown Triggerfish get?

The Clown Triggerfish can reach up to 50 cm in length and 3.3 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Clown Triggerfish live in?

The Clown Triggerfish is found in these habitats: underwater cave, coastal zone, deep water, and coral reef.

How deep does the Clown Triggerfish live?

The Clown Triggerfish lives between 1 and 75 m deep.

What does the Clown Triggerfish eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Clown Triggerfish most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

Does the Clown Triggerfish live in groups?

No. The Clown Triggerfish is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

How long does the Clown Triggerfish live?

The Clown Triggerfish lives 8 to 20 years.

What is the conservation status of the Clown Triggerfish?

The Clown Triggerfish is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Clown Triggerfish. Spotted something that looks off?

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