Ultra Aberrant Undulated Triggerfish SHOW

Aberrant Undulate Triggerfish

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Balistapus undulatus

Overview
Reef Compatible: NO
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Origin: Indonesia

Balistapus undulatus, also known as the orange-lined triggerfish, is a captivating marine fish belonging to the butterflyfish family (Balistidae). Let’s dive into some intriguing details about this species:

• Description: The orange-lined triggerfish boasts a dark brown to dark green body adorned with vibrant orange lines that start behind its head and extend across the rest of its form. Its body has a stocky, oval shape and is laterally compressed. The head, constituting about one-third of the body length, is large. This fish’s small, terminal mouth features strong teeth. Notably, the first dorsal fin has three spines, with one being longer and sturdier than the others. When at rest, this fin is kept in a dorsal furrow. The second dorsal fin mirrors the shape and size of the anal fin, symmetrically opposed to it. The pelvic fin is reduced to a ventral protrusion. Additionally, the orange-lined triggerfish typically sports a large block spot near its peduncular spines, and its caudal fin is a vibrant orange. Males tend to be larger and lack a concave snout, while females and juveniles exhibit a concave snout and retain the characteristic orange lines on their snouts as they mature.

• Size: These triggerfish reach a maximum total length of approximately 30 centimeters (about 11.8 inches).

• Distribution and Habitat: Found primarily in coral reef ecosystems, coral lagoons, and external reef slopes across the Indo-western Pacific, the orange-lined triggerfish also inhabits areas off the coast of East Africa, the Red Sea, and Japan. They tend to stay close to their burrows and dens within the reef. While they are versatile in terms of depth, studies indicate a preference for depths between 2 to 8 meters. Interestingly, adults favor rock and branching coral substrata, while juveniles prefer softer surfaces.

• Ecological Role and Feeding: As omnivorous feeders, these triggerfish consume a variety of benthic prey, including cnidarians, mollusks, crustaceans, other fish, algae, and echinoderms. Their broad diet and distribution make them crucial components in coral reef ecosystems, contributing to top-down control and regulating sea urchin populations.

Next time you explore the underwater wonders, keep an eye out for the vibrant orange-lined triggerfish!