Fin's Fish Guide
The Ocean triggerfish (Canthidermis maculata) is a saltwater fish of the family Balistidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceans, epipelagic, often near floating objects.
Description
The rough triggerfish is an open-ocean triggerfish (family Balistidae) occurring worldwide in warm seas. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, brown-grey body often dotted with pale spots. It lives almost its entire life epipelagically in shallow coastal and offshore waters and often stays near drifting objects; sometimes it occurs over deep rocky slopes. Its diet consists of zooplankton and small invertebrates. Like all triggerfish it can lock the first dorsal spine upright. In some tropical areas the flesh can contain ciguatera.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ocean triggerfish?
The Ocean triggerfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Open-sea migratory fish that often stays near floating objects; can lock the first dorsal fin spine. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Ocean triggerfish live?
The Ocean triggerfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceans, epipelagic, often near floating objects.
How big does the Ocean triggerfish get?
The Ocean triggerfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Ocean triggerfish dangerous to humans?
The Ocean triggerfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The flesh can contain ciguatera in some tropical areas; do not eat large reef specimens from risk areas. In case of poisoning (tingling, gastrointestinal symptoms) seek medical advice.
Is the Ocean triggerfish edible?
The Ocean triggerfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Canthidermis
More from the family Balistidae
Want the complete picture on the Ocean triggerfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ocean triggerfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.