Clown Triggerfish (Balistoides Conspicillum)

Species Name: Balistoides Conspicillum

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Aggressive

Color Form : Black, Blue, Green, Orange, White, Yellow

Diet : Carnivore

Reef Compatible : No

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 1' 8»

Origin : Australia, Indonesia, Sumatra

Family : Balistidae

Minimum Tank Size : 250 gallons

The Clown Triggerfish (Balistoides Conspicillum) has a dramatic coloration, making this species a most sought after addition to the home aquarium. 

The Clown Triggerfish is a fish which grows up to 50 cm (19.7 inches). A striking black triggerfish with large white spots on the lower side, a yellowish to whitish reticulated pattern on the back, a pale band in front of the eyes, orange lips, a pale caudal peduncle, and a black caudal fin with a broad pale yellowish vertical band. Juveniles are black with large white spots, a yellow snout and a yellow patch on the middle of the back. Its body has a stocky appearance, oval shape and compressed laterally. The head is large and represents approximately one third of the body length. The mouth is small, terminal and has strong teeth. 

These fish prefer well lit aquariums with a cave to hide in at night. It can be recommended to beginning marine aquarists provided they understand the fish’s requirements for big tanks. The aquarium for this species must be huge, with a 250-gallon being the absolute smallest that can be considered—and this being only if the fish is kept by itself, there is massive filtration, and regular large water changes are performed. 

Among the most colorful, the Clown Triggerfish is also one of the most aggressive commonly kept inhabitants of an aquarium. Care should be taken in selecting its tank mates, choosing other aggressive, large fish. If keeping this specimen with other triggers, be sure to have plenty of rock archways, and caves for them to swim thru and hide in. The tank decor should also be chosen based on the propensity of the Clown Triggerfish to rearrange it.

Once acclimated to captivity, specimens will take just about any meaty fare. Always feed meat from marine species, and never offer live fish, as this will only fuel the trigger’s aggressive habits. The Clown Triggerfish needs a varied diet of meaty foods including; squid, krill, clams, small fish and hard shelled shrimp to help wear down their ever growing teeth. To maintain body weight of this fish it is recommended to feed 2 or 3 times a day.

Size:

Small: 1" to 2"

Medium 2" to 3"