Balistoides conspicillum (Clown triggerfish)

Identification

Black undercolor with large white spots on lower body, orange to yellow lips, yellowish band across the top of the snout, pale spot with dark spots on the back.

Status

Uncommon.

Habitat

Indo-Pacific: East Africa south to Durban, the Maldives, South Africa and east through Indonesia to Samoa, north to southern Japan and south to New Caledonia. Lives in clear coastal to outer reef habitats. Occurs in clear seaward reefs adjacent to steep drop-offs. in a depth range of 2-75 meters.

Reproduction

Size

Up to 50cm.

Prey / Predation

It feeds on sea urchins, crabs and other crustaceans, mollusks, and tunicates.

Special features

It is said to be poisonous.