Common name: Halfmoon triggerfish
General information
The Halfmoon Triggerfish, also known as the Yellow-spotted Triggerfish, is a vibrant and intelligent species that adds both color and personality to a marine aquarium. Its scientific name is Sufflamen chrysopterum, and it is recognized by its deep blue to purple body, bright yellow spots, and distinctive halfmoon-shaped tail.
This species is known for its curious and often bold behavior, making it a favorite among experienced aquarists. However, it is also known for its territorial nature, which should be considered when planning tank mates.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 25 cm (10″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs hiding spots & open swimming
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. meaty foods & veggies
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at clam mantles & inverts
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially to conspecifics
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPufferfishTetraodontiformes
- FamilyTriggerfishBalistidae
- GenusTriggerfishSufflamen
- SpeciesHalfmoon triggerfishSufflamen chrysopterum (Bloch & Schneider, 1801)
- SynonymsBalistes chrysopterus Bloch & Schneider, 1801Hemibalistes chrysopterus (Bloch & Schneider, 1801)
Care
Halfmoon Triggerfish require a large tank with plenty of swimming space and rockwork to explore and claim as territory. They are not reef-safe as they tend to nip at and consume various invertebrates and small fish. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and fish is essential for their health.
Reproduction
In the wild, Halfmoon Triggerfish are solitary nesters. Males are territorial and will guard the nest against intruders. Breeding in captivity is rare and challenging, requiring a large, species-specific setup.
Habitat
Sufflamen chrysopterum is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the Hawaiian, Marquesan, and Ducie islands, north to southern Japan, and south to Lord Howe Island. They prefer clear, coastal to outer reef environments and are often observed at depths ranging from 1 to 60 meters.