You might want to check on the distribution of this fish. Other sources say it's on the western side of the Pacific. We definitely saw it in the Galapagos.
Orangeside Triggerfish
Sufflamen verres
Also known as: Orange-sided Triggerfish, Yellowbelly Triggerfish, Yellow-bellied Triggerfish
- Orange-sided Triggerfish
- Yellowbelly Triggerfish
- Yellow-bellied Triggerfish
Overview
Found singly or in small schools, along rocky reefs and coastlines, sometimes in deep water swimming high above the reef. Usually observed at nesting time when guarding their nests!
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 · Eastern Pacific
- Exact location · 1
- Country only · 1
Found singly or in small schools, along rocky reefs and coastlines, sometimes in deep water swimming high above the reef.
Adult photos 2
Discussion 1
1 comment
- Carol· 20 Mar 2016
Deep dive
More in the family
Triggerfishes (Balistidae)

Assasi Triggerfish
Rhinecanthus assasi
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Black Triggerfish
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Blackpatch Triggerfish
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Blue Triggerfish
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Blue-lined Triggerfish
Xanthichthys caeruleolineatus
1 photo

Bluespotted Triggerfish
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3 photos

Bluethroat Triggerfish
Sufflamen albicaudatum
3 photos

Boomerang Triggerfish
Sufflamen bursa
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Bridled Triggerfish
Sufflamen fraenatum
3 photos

Clown Triggerfish
Balistoides conspicillum

Crosshatch Triggerfish
Xanthichthys mento
1 photo

Grey Triggerfish
Balistes capriscus