Indian Triggerfish
Melichthys indicus
Also known as: Black Triggerfish, Black-finned Triggerfish, Indian Ocean Durgon, Indian Trigger
- Black Triggerfish
- Black-finned Triggerfish
- Indian Ocean Durgon
- Indian Trigger
Overview
Found singly, below coral bases, over seaward reef slopes, rich in coral growth.
Triggerfish have a hard spine dorsal fin that can be locked.
When sleeping this spine is used to wedge them into place in a crevasse and so deter predators from pulling them out of their bed!
The spine is also held erect as a warning to other fish to stay away.
Several large Titans blow shallow depressions in the sand for nesting and if approached will raise this spine as a warning, if ignored they may charge, even divers! especially the Titan Triggerfish who will take a tasty bite. Beware.
How to identify
Habitat & where to find it
- Range · Indian Ocean
- Exact location · 1
- Country only · 15
Found singly, below coral bases, over seaward reef slopes, rich in coral growth.
Adult photos 16
Discussion
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Deep dive
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