Picasso Triggerfish

The Picasso Triggerfish is one of the most instantly recognizable marine fish in the world, famous for its abstract, almost painted appearance that inspired its common name. The body is adorned with a striking arrangement of bold geometric patterns featuring blue and black stripes radiating from the eyes, a yellow-brown upper body with diagonal white stripes, a bright blue and yellow lip stripe, and a distinctive black wedge-shaped patch across the posterior body. The overall effect is reminiscent of a cubist painting, making this species unmistakable on any reef or in any aquarium.

This species holds special cultural significance in Hawaii, where it is known by its full Hawaiian name Humuhumu-nukunuku-apua'a, which translates roughly to 'triggerfish with a snout like a pig.' It is the official state fish of Hawaii and is deeply embedded in Polynesian culture and tradition. Despite its relatively modest size compared to other triggerfish, the Picasso Triggerfish possesses the bold, assertive personality that is characteristic of the entire triggerfish family.

In the aquarium, the Picasso Triggerfish is a hardy, active, and intelligent species that quickly becomes the dominant personality in the tank. However, it can be quite aggressive, particularly as it matures, and will rearrange rockwork, attack invertebrates, and bully smaller or more timid tankmates. It is emphatically not reef-safe, as it will consume crustaceans, echinoderms, mollusks, and sessile invertebrates with its powerful, crushing jaws. This species is best suited for fish-only or FOWLR aquariums with other robust, assertive fish that can hold their own.