Wedge Triggerfish (Rhinecanthus rectangulus) Care Guide

Rhinecanthus rectangulus is an Indo-Pacific triggerfish of shallow surge reefs and one of Hawaii's state fish, with a broad dark wedge marking.

Overview

Rhinecanthus rectangulus, the wedgetail or reef triggerfish, is a marine fish of the family Balistidae. It has an orange-brown back and white belly crossed by a bold dark wedge marking, with intricate face patterning. It is the state fish of Hawaii, where it is known as humuhumunukunukuapuaa. FishBase records a maximum total length of 30.0 cm; the KB record gives a typical aquarium size of 22-25 cm.

Taxonomy

• Family: Balistidae
• Genus: Rhinecanthus
• Scientific name: Rhinecanthus rectangulus
• Described by Bloch & Schneider in 1801

Habitat

The species ranges across the Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea and East Africa through Indonesia and northern Australia to Hawaii and the Pitcairn Islands, north to southern Japan. It inhabits shallow outer reefs exposed to surge, including barren rock and spur-and-groove zones; juveniles occur on algal reef. FishBase gives a depth range of 0 to 20 m.

Tank requirements

• Minimum tank volume: 400 L (about 106 gal)
• Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Carbonate hardness / GH range: 8-12 °dGH
• Lifespan: 10-20 years

Diet

Rhinecanthus rectangulus is a carnivore, with a FishBase trophic level of 3.5. Its diet includes algae, detritus, molluscs, crustaceans, worms, echinoderms, fishes, sponges and eggs. In captivity it accepts meaty marine foods offered about twice daily.

Compatibility

This is an aggressive, territorial and non-schooling species that swims in the middle water column. It is not reef-safe and is best kept with other large, robust fish such as large angels and large tangs. Ornamental shrimp, snails, crabs and small fish should be avoided.

Breeding

Rhinecanthus rectangulus is oviparous and forms distinct pairs that defend territory. Captive breeding is regarded as expert-level and is rarely achieved in home aquaria.

Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2022).