Bursa Triggerfish

The Bursa Triggerfish is a member of the Rhinecanthus genus, sharing the same distinctive geometric body pattern as its more famous relatives the Picasso and Assasi triggerfish. It features a complex arrangement of tan, brown, blue, and yellow markings, with a prominent dark patch on the belly region that gives rise to its alternate name Blackbelly Triggerfish. The body is adorned with the characteristic blue and yellow lip stripe and angular dark marking on the posterior that defines the Rhinecanthus group.

In the wild, the Bursa Triggerfish inhabits shallow reef flats, lagoons, and coastal areas across the Indo-Pacific, where it is commonly found in rubble zones and areas of mixed sand and rock. It is an opportunistic feeder that uses its strong jaws to flip over rubble and rocks, exposing hidden crustaceans, worms, and other invertebrates. This species is particularly bold and territorial, aggressively defending its chosen area against intruders of any size.

The Bursa Triggerfish is a hardy and robust aquarium species that adapts well to captive conditions. It is intelligent, bold, and often becomes the dominant personality in the aquarium. Like other Rhinecanthus species, it will rearrange rockwork, consume all invertebrates, and may harass timid tankmates. It is not reef-safe and is best kept in fish-only or FOWLR systems with other assertive species that can stand up to its territorial behavior. Despite its aggression, it is a long-lived and interactive pet that develops a strong bond with its keeper.