Titan Triggerfish

Titan Triggerfish

Balistoides viridescens

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Titan Triggerfish (Balistoides viridescens) is the largest species of triggerfish, reaching up to 75 cm in length, with a distinctive greyish-green body and a "moustache" pattern around its mouth. It is known for its powerful jaws and teeth, which it uses to crush the shells of sea urchins, crabs, molluscs, and coral. This diurnal fish is highly territorial, especially when guarding its nest, and can exhibit aggressive behavior towards intruders, including divers.

Max Length 75 cm
Max Weight 10 kg
Lifespan 10 - 15 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 60 m
Diet Specialized
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Titan Triggerfish

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Titan Triggerfish

Range

Where Titan Triggerfish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Titan Triggerfish

Where can you see the Titan Triggerfish?

The Titan Triggerfish can be seen at 34 dive destinations in 8 countries. The best spots include Koh Tao (Thailand), Similan Islands (Thailand), Abu Dabbab (Egypt), Addu Atoll (Maldives), and Aliwal Shoal (South Africa).

What is the best time to see the Titan Triggerfish?

Sightings of the Titan Triggerfish peak at different times depending on the destination: Great Barrier Reef from March to October, Lady Elliot Island from March to October, Osprey Reef from March to October, and Richelieu Rock from February to May and from October to December.

Can you see the Titan Triggerfish all year round?

Yes. At Koh Tao, Similan Islands, Abu Dabbab, Addu Atoll, and Aliwal Shoal, the Titan Triggerfish is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Titan Triggerfish in Thailand?

In Thailand, you can see the Titan Triggerfish at Koh Tao, Similan Islands, Koh Lipe, and Richelieu Rock.

Where can you see the Titan Triggerfish in Maldives?

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

Where can you see the Titan Triggerfish in Egypt?

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

How big does the Titan Triggerfish get?

The Titan Triggerfish can reach up to 75 cm in length and 10 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Titan Triggerfish live in?

The Titan Triggerfish is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Titan Triggerfish live?

The Titan Triggerfish lives from the surface down to 60 m.

What does the Titan Triggerfish eat?

Depends on a narrow, particular diet, often a single prey type or family, which binds it closely to one habitat.

When is the Titan Triggerfish most active?

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

How long does the Titan Triggerfish live?

The Titan Triggerfish lives 10 to 15 years.

What is the conservation status of the Titan Triggerfish?

The Titan 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 Titan Triggerfish. Spotted something that looks off?

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