Triggerfish

Poorly misunderstood, we were often warned about this beautiful and robust reef fish for its aggressiveness. However, there are more to be discovered about this particular local reef resident here in Pulau Kapas. The Titan triggerfish, or also known as Moustached triggerfish are a deep-bodied and colourful fish found in Pulau Kapas. They are under the family Balistidae.

The name 'Triggerfish' was derived from their triggering mechanism located in the first two of their three dorsal spines. They are well-known among divers as Titan triggerfish are relentless when threatened. They are also territorial during the breeding season. They will attack divers or fish when intruded or disturbed.

The territories of the Titan triggerfish are extremely important for reproduction. Parental care and spawning are the two key essential elements in their territory. Therefore, they get very defensive if intruded. A territory is able to be inhabited by more than one female. The males are able to mate with more than one female in his territory as they are polygynous.

The bites of the Titan triggerfish are not venomous. However, serious injuries associated with the bites of the fish may require medical attention. The body of the Titan triggerfish are heavily-scaled and is usually dark green to greyish in color. The dark markings around their mouths are the reason for their nickname, "Moustached triggerfish" or "Black-tipped triggerfish". Spawning season of the Triggerfish usually occurs from the month of April to August. They consume a myriad of reef invertebrates, from brittle stars, small crustaceans, worms to sea urchins.

Photo credit: "Big Triggerfish" by MagicOlf is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0