Halfmoon Triggerfish

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Indo-Pacific, widely distributed from East Africa to the Hawaiian and Tuamotu Islands. Found on shallow seaward reefs and sandy lagoons at depths of 2 to 30 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Part of the Balistidae family, genus Sufflamen. Features a compressed, leather-like body with a lockable dorsal spine. Grows up to 30 cm (12 inches).

Social Behavior: Solitary and highly territorial. Can be aggressive toward newly introduced tankmates and other triggerfish. Digs in sand by blowing jets of water.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Dark brown-grey body with a vertical white stripe behind the eye and a yellow caudal fin with a white margin. Minimal sexual dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a large tank of at least 500 liters (130 gallons) with secured rockwork placed on the tank floor to prevent collapse from digging. No special covers needed.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivorous. Diet must include hard-shelled foods to wear down teeth, such as whole mussels, clams in shell, crabs, shrimp, and squid. Feed twice daily.

Water Quality: Maintain stable marine parameters: temperature 22-26°C (72-78°F), pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025, and KH 8-12. High-capacity skimming is required.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: FOWLR tanks only. Best housed with other large, aggressive fish like tangs, large angels, and morays. Will devour clean-up crews.

Aquarium Breeding: Unreported in captive environments. In nature, pairs dig nests in the sand and aggressively defend the eggs.

Risks and Diseases: Very hardy. Possesses powerful jaws and can bite the aquarist's fingers during tank maintenance. Use caution when working in the tank.