Fin's Fish Guide
The Gilded triggerfish (Xanthichthys auromarginatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Balistidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Fiji, French Polynesia and others
Description
The gilded triggerfish is a triggerfish (Balistidae) from deeper reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 22 cm and has an elongate, grey-blue body with fine light spots and gold-edged fins; the male has a strikingly blue chin. It often hovers in open water above the reef and snaps at zooplankton drifting by on the current. Like all triggerfish it can lock its first dorsal spine. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gilded triggerfish?
The Gilded triggerfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Gilded triggerfish live?
The Gilded triggerfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Fiji, French Polynesia and others
How big does the Gilded triggerfish get?
The Gilded triggerfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Gilded triggerfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Gilded triggerfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Gilded triggerfish edible?
The Gilded triggerfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Xanthichthys
More from the family Balistidae
Want the complete picture on the Gilded triggerfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gilded triggerfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.