Stone Triggerfish Care Guide
Pseudobalistes naufragium is the largest triggerfish, reaching 100 cm in the Eastern Pacific, an invertebrate feeder needing enormous systems.
Overview
Pseudobalistes naufragium, the stone triggerfish, belongs to the family Balistidae. FishBase records it as a reef-associated Eastern Pacific species reaching 100 cm in total length, with a common length of 55 cm, making it one of the largest triggerfishes. The body is compressed and moderately deep with thick skin and large plate-like scales.
Taxonomy
- Family: Balistidae
- Genus: Pseudobalistes
- Scientific name: Pseudobalistes naufragium
Habitat
FishBase reports the range in the Eastern Pacific from Baja California to Ecuador, with reports from Peru and Chile. It is found around reefs and over sandy bottoms of shallow waters at depths of 3-36 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 2000 L (about 528 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 preys on sea urchins, small crustaceans and molluscs, often blowing into sand to uncover prey or turn over urchins, according to FishBase. In aquaria it is offered meaty marine foods twice daily.
Compatibility
It is not reef-safe and, given its very large size, is suited only to the largest fish-only systems housing other large robust fish such as large angelfish and tangs. Avoid ornamental shrimp, snails, crabs and small fish.
Conservation status
FishBase lists the species as Least Concern (assessed 1 May 2008).