More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 800 litres / 211.34 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 50.0cm / 19.69inches |
| Reef Compatible | Not reef safe |
| Temperament | Aggressive towards other species |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description:
The Clown Triggerfish (Balistoides conspicillum), a member of the Balistidae family, is recognized for its striking coloration and aggressive behavior. These fish can grow up to 50.0cm in length and are native to the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from East Africa to South Africa and eastwards through Indonesia to Samoa.
Aquarium Suitability (Suitable with Care):
Despite their captivating appearance, Clown Triggerfish are considered suitable for aquariums with caution due to their aggressive nature. When housed with other species, particularly peaceful or docile ones, careful monitoring is essential. Providing ample feeding, hiding spots, and sufficient space can help mitigate their aggressive tendencies to some extent.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness:
Clown Triggerfish have average hardiness and require a minimum tank size of 800 liters. They thrive in water conditions with a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12. Ensuring good hiding places and a secure tank setup, including stable rocks, is crucial for their well-being.
Reef Suitability:
These fish are not reef-safe and can pose a threat to smaller fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates commonly found in reef environments. Due to their feeding habits and potential aggression, Clown Triggerfish are not recommended for coral aquariums.
Aquarium Setup:
Setting up an aquarium for Clown Triggerfish involves incorporating plenty of hiding places, live rocks, and secure structures to prevent toppling. Ensuring a varied diet is crucial, consisting of fish, larger crustaceans, invertebrates, small crustaceans, and algae-based foods to meet their nutritional needs.
Behaviour:
Clown Triggerfish are known for their fun and interesting personalities, exhibiting behaviors like rearranging rocks and sand in the tank. They may display curiosity towards objects in the aquarium, potentially leading them to investigate and even bite items like wiring and plastics, requiring caution and vigilance.
Feeding and Diet:
These fish require a diverse diet to thrive, including krill, Mysis, shrimps, crabs, mussels, small fish, octopus, snails, and algae-based foods. Offering food that helps prevent overgrown teeth, such as clams, is essential, as addressing dental issues can be stressful for the fish.
Habitat and Distribution:
Clown Triggerfish are commonly found in the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, Indonesia, and the Central/West Pacific regions. Their natural habitat includes rocky areas and coral reefs where they utilize their strong jaws to feed on rock, shells, and corals in the wild.