Clown Triggerfish

The Clown Triggerfish is widely regarded as one of the most spectacularly colored fish in the sea and is arguably the most iconic triggerfish species in the marine aquarium hobby. The lower half of its body is jet black with large, bold white spots resembling a polka-dot pattern, while the upper body transitions to a golden-yellow to tan color with darker mottling. A vivid yellow band encircles the mouth, and dramatic black and yellow markings decorate the face. The dorsal fin base features a yellow and black leopard-like pattern that completes this truly unforgettable appearance.

In the wild, the Clown Triggerfish inhabits steep outer reef slopes, walls, and drop-offs across the Indo-Pacific, typically at depths between 20 and 250 feet. Juveniles are far more reclusive than adults and are usually found in caves and under overhangs. This species is a powerful predator of hard-shelled invertebrates, using its exceptionally strong jaws to crush sea urchins, crabs, mollusks, and coral with devastating efficiency.

The Clown Triggerfish is one of the most aggressive fish commonly kept in marine aquariums. While juveniles are often deceptively mild-mannered, adults become extremely territorial and domineering, often becoming the undisputed ruler of any tank they inhabit. They will attack and potentially kill tankmates of almost any size, rearrange heavy rockwork, bite through heater cords and airline tubing, and destroy any invertebrate life in the aquarium. Only the most experienced aquarists with very large fish-only systems of 300 gallons or more should attempt to keep adult specimens. Despite these challenges, its stunning beauty and remarkable intelligence make it one of the most coveted species in the hobby.