Common name: Yellowmargin triggerfish
General information
The Yellowmargin Triggerfish, Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus, is a vibrant and intelligent species known for its distinctive yellow margins on the fins and a robust, somewhat rectangular body shape. This species can grow quite large, reaching up to 60 centimeters in length, and is known for its curious and sometimes aggressive behavior. In the wild, they are often found in lagoons and on outer reef slopes.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 750 liter (200 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 45 cm (1′6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs hiding places and space to swim
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. meaty foods & veggies
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at corals and inverts
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially when mature
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPufferfishTetraodontiformes
- FamilyTriggerfishBalistidae
- GenusTriggerfishPseudobalistes
- SpeciesYellowmargin triggerfishPseudobalistes flavimarginatus (Rüppell, 1829)
- SynonymsBalistes flavimarginatus Rüppell, 1829Pseudobalistes flavomarginatus (Rüppell, 1829)
Care
Due to their potential size and territorial nature, Yellowmargin Triggerfish require a large aquarium with plenty of swimming space and robust filtration. They are not suitable for a reef tank as they may prey on invertebrates and smaller fish. These fish are hardy and adaptable to various diets, but they should be fed a variety of meaty foods like shrimp, squid, and fish.
Reproduction
In the wild, Yellowmargin Triggerfish are solitary nesters. The females lay eggs in a sandy substrate, which the males then fertilize and guard aggressively until they hatch. Reproduction in the home aquarium is rare, but providing a sandy bottom and ample space may encourage breeding behavior.
Habitat
Yellowmargin Triggerfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific Ocean. They prefer reef environments with clear water and a sandy bottom, where they can forage for food and create nesting sites.