Gray Triggerfish
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Scientific Name:
Balistes capriscus Saltwater
Offshore
Native
Fish
- Seasons and Regulations
- Licenses/Permits
Description
Olive-gray oval-shaped body with rough leathery-skin. Prominent dorsal and anal fins. Large spines in first dorsal fin. Sharp teeth protrude from its mouth. Can grow to more than 12 pounds.
Range and Habitat
Inhabit offshore rocky bottoms and reefs of the western Atlantic and Gulf of America. Smaller juveniles live higher in the water column and move down to deep waters as they grow.
Behavior
Gets its name from the spines in its dorsal fin—when threatened, the triggerfish dives into a crevice and locks the first spine in an erect position to anchor itself. The second spine is connected to the first and acts like a trigger, unlocking it when it's depressed. Feed on small benthic invertebrates like crabs, mollusks, and shrimp.