Picasso Triggerfish
Scientific Name : Rhinecanthus Aculeatus
Origin : Tahiti, Fiji islands
Temperament : Aggressive, Territorial
Temperature : 72F - 82F
Maximum Size : 11 Inches
Diet : Carnivore
Difficulty : Easy
Reef Safe : No
Tank Size : 100 Gallons
The Picasso Triggerfish is the most recognizable and common member of the Triggerfish in the marine aquarium hobby. They are collected in various sizes around Tahiti and the Fiji islands. A very reasonably priced triggerfish that can cost anywhere from $25 to $60 depending on the size of the specimen.
Picasso triggerfish are also known by their common names, the Huma Huma or Humu Humu Triggerfish. They are called the picasso triggerfish because of the myriad of random colored lines across its body and face. These lines are colored yellow, blue, orange, white and black which ultimately gives this marine aquarium fish a very unique appearance.
Compared to other triggerfish, they are one of the smaller species at 11 inches. By anyones standard however, a foot in length still makes a big fish. Because of this, they require a minimum of 100 gallons to do well. As always, bigger aquariums in the range of 200 or more gallons are always better. Like all triggerfish, the picasso trigger has a disproportionately large head for its body size. Up to one third of its overall body size can be made up by its head.
Alawys aggressive and territorial in the wild or in captivity, they are really only suited to large fish only aquariums that house large fish that can hold their own against a triggerfish. Some good choices include large angelfish, Surgeonfish, Groupers, Moray Eels, Snappers and Lionfish. Like all triggerfish, they have very strong jaws that perfectly suited to crush the shells of a variety of crustaceans. They will alos prey on sea urchins and much smaller fish. Combine this fact with their habit of moving live rock around the aquarium as they see fit and you will realize that this fish isn't really reef safe. But there are always exceptions to the rule.
Triggerfish are some of the easiest marine aquarium fish to feed in captivity. They are generally not picky and will eat frozen foods with ease. Over time, they can be tought to consume dry foods such as pellets and freeze dried mysis shrimp and krill. It is best to offer them a varied diet as to ensure they get balanced nutrition in captivity. Some good foods for these large carnivores are :-
Alternatively, you can go to your local market and purchase scallops, prawns, squid and chop them up. Make sure to enrich the seafood with * Selcon vitamin supplements before feeding.
While triggerfish are some of the toughest fish in terms of durability, they can fall sick. Always quarantine new fish to avoid spreading diseases and parasites in the main aquarium. Generally, triggerfish usually recover very quickly form any sickness or parasites with great speed. They are also not as sensitive to certain types of medication compared to other types of marine aquarium fish.
Overall, if you are looking for a large, colorful and aggressive fish that wouldn't cost too much, the Picasso Triggerfish is a good choice. You will have to deal with their aggression and penchant for moving things around in the aquarium though. They are also messy easters so ensure the aquarium filtration can handle the waste.
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