Fin's Fish Guide
The Black triggerfish (Sufflamen chrysopterum) is a saltwater fish of the family Balistidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The halfmoon triggerfish is a triggerfish (Balistidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a brown body with a paler, crescent-shaped band behind the head and a yellowish margin on the tail fin. Like all triggerfishes it can erect and lock the first dorsal fin spine to wedge itself into a crevice. It inhabits varied reefs, from silty lagoons to pristine outer reef walls, and is solitary and territorial. It feeds on a wide variety of benthic invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black triggerfish?
The Black triggerfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Crescent-shaped band behind the head; locking dorsal fin spine; solitary and territorial.
Where does the Black triggerfish live?
The Black triggerfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; coastal to outer reefs.
How big does the Black triggerfish get?
The Black triggerfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Black triggerfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Black triggerfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black triggerfish edible?
The Black triggerfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sufflamen
More from the family Balistidae
Want the complete picture on the Black triggerfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black triggerfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.