Fin's Fish Guide
The Starry triggerfish (Abalistes stellaris) is a saltwater fish of the family Balistidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The starry triggerfish is a large triggerfish from the Indo-West Pacific, ranging from the Red Sea and East Africa through northern Australia to Fiji and southern Japan. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a greyish-brown, flattened body with pale spots and keeled ridges on the posterior scales. Like all triggerfishes it can lock the first dorsal spine upright to wedge itself in place. It lives on sandy and muddy bottoms to about 350 metres depth and eats bottom animals. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Starry triggerfish?
The Starry triggerfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Lockable first dorsal fin spine; keel-shaped ridges on the rear body
Where does the Starry triggerfish live?
The Starry triggerfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Starry triggerfish get?
The Starry triggerfish grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Starry triggerfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Starry 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 Starry triggerfish edible?
Yes, the Starry triggerfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Starry triggerfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Starry triggerfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Abalistes
More from the family Balistidae
Want the complete picture on the Starry triggerfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Starry triggerfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.