Yellow-spotted Triggerfish Care Guide
Pseudobalistes fuscus is a large Indo-Pacific triggerfish reaching 55 cm, an invertebrate feeder that becomes very aggressive when nesting.
Overview
Pseudobalistes fuscus, the yellow-spotted or blue triggerfish, belongs to the family Balistidae. FishBase records it as a reef-associated, non-migratory Indo-Pacific species reaching 55 cm in total length.
Taxonomy
- Family: Balistidae
- Genus: Pseudobalistes
- Scientific name: Pseudobalistes fuscus
Habitat
FishBase reports the range from the Red Sea to East Africa, through northern Australia to the Society Islands, and north to southern Japan. Adults occur in clear shallow lagoons, seaward reefs and sandy areas near reef patches at depths of 30-50 m, while juveniles inhabit rubble reef or small outcrops on open substrate.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 1000 L (about 264 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- GH: 8-12 °dGH
- Water flow: high
- Lifespan: 10-20 years
Diet
This carnivore consumes sea urchins, crustaceans, molluscs, dead fish, tunicates and corals according to FishBase. In aquaria it is offered meaty marine foods twice daily.
Compatibility
FishBase notes the species forms distinct pairs and is monogamous, with territorial, aggressive nest-guarding females. It is not reef-safe and is kept only with other large robust fish such as large angelfish and tangs. Avoid ornamental shrimp, snails, crabs and small fish.
Breeding
FishBase reports the species is oviparous and monogamous. Females are territorial and solely tend and guard the eggs, while males exhibit polygyny.
Conservation status
FishBase lists the species as Least Concern (assessed 13 January 2022).