Halfmoon Triggerfish Care Guide

Sufflamen chrysopterum is an Indo-Pacific reef triggerfish reaching 30 cm, an invertebrate feeder kept in large fish-only marine systems.

Overview

Sufflamen chrysopterum, the halfmoon triggerfish, is a member of the family Balistidae. According to FishBase, it is a reef-associated, non-migratory species distributed across the tropical Indo-Pacific and reaching about 30 cm in total length. It was described in 1801 and is taken by minor commercial fisheries and the aquarium trade.

Taxonomy

• Family: Balistidae
• Genus: Sufflamen
• Scientific name: Sufflamen chrysopterum

Habitat

FishBase records the species from East Africa eastward through northern Australia to Samoa, and north to southern Japan. It occupies depths from 0 to 80 m. Adults inhabit coastal to outer reefs, ranging from silty lagoons to seaward reef walls, and Wikipedia notes occurrence on seaward reefs and shallow lagoons.

Tank requirements

• Minimum tank volume: 400 L (about 106 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 is a carnivore. FishBase reports that it feeds on a wide variety of invertebrates, and Wikipedia adds small invertebrates such as crustaceans and worms. In aquaria it is offered meaty marine foods two times daily.

Compatibility

FishBase describes the species as solitary and territorial. It is not reef-safe and is kept with other large, robust fish such as large angelfish and tangs. Ornamental shrimp, snails, crabs and small fish should be avoided as tank mates.

Breeding

FishBase reports the species is oviparous and monogamous. Males defend territories in which females reside, females prepare sandy nest sites and fan and guard the eggs while males patrol nearby. Captive breeding is not established.

Conservation status

Wikipedia lists the species as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.