Triggerfishes are members of Balistidae family. They are mainly found in the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans. They can be recognized by their unique body shape, strong teeth, and first dorsal fin with 3 visible spines (first dorsal spine with locking mechanism).
Most triggerfishes inhabit in coral and rocky reefs from the coastline to a depth of 100 m. They are mostly solitary diurnal carnivores, feeding on a wide variety of invertebrates.
There are 12 genera and about 42 species of triggerfishes worldwide. Malaysia is represented by 7 genera and about 16 species.
|
Scientific Name: Abalistes stellaris (Bloch & Schneider, 1801) English Name: Starry Triggerfish, Star Puffer Local Malay Name: Jebong, Ayam Laut Main Diagnostic Features: Long and depressed caudal peduncle. 3 large white blotches on back. Soft dorsal and anal fins with yellow, slightly oblique stripes. Size: Maximum total length 60 cm, commonly to 40 cm.  |