These strange, flat fish gain their name from a their defensive "trigger", basically a range of spines along their dorsal fin. The first two spines, once extended, stay in a locked position and cannot be closed by external pressure. This makes it difficult for predators to swallow them or for the fish to be pulled free from its hiding hole. If, however, the third spine, or trigger, is released, the spines will unlocked fold back down again.

Triggerfish can be found throughout the Caribbean and Mediterranean, and in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, usually in warm water. These range from the Atlantic grey triggerfish to the colourful clown triggerfish and even the more bizarre Hawaiian reef triggerfish also known as the Picasso triggerfish, due to the strange colours and patterns on its angular head.

Despite the exterior differences, triggerfish all possess the same basic characteristics with flat, tear-shaped bodies, with small dorsal fin on top, stubby tail at the back, eyes placed high, capable of pivoting independently, long, triangular snouts and small mouths filled with strong, prominent jaws with sharp teeth used for crushing shells. Triggerfish size ranges but can grow as large as 60cm (2 ft). The triggerfish is a member of the Balistidae family.

Triggerfish feed mostly on shellfish though some species feed on algae and plankton. They are generally solitary creatures but many species are known to attack creatures, even men, who approach their nest. Considering their size and those sharp teeth, divers could do well to steer clear.

Did you know? Some species of triggerfish are known to make a growling sound when taken out of water.

Picasso Triggerfish

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