Picasso Trigger

The Picasso Triggerfish (Rhinecanthus aculeatus) is a striking and fascinating marine fish, admired for its bold patterns, vibrant markings and confident personality. Featuring a tan body decorated with distinctive black, blue, yellow and white lines, this eye-catching triggerfish makes a real statement in a suitably sized marine aquarium.

Native to the tropical Indo-Pacific, the Picasso Triggerfish is an active and intelligent species that spends much of its time exploring its surroundings. It can develop an engaging personality and may become familiar with its keeper, making it a popular choice for experienced aquarists looking for a fish with plenty of character.

Although juvenile Picasso Triggerfish are often sold at a relatively small size, they can grow to approximately 25–30cm. It is important to plan for their adult size from the beginning and provide a spacious aquarium with open swimming areas, caves and securely arranged rockwork. Triggerfish are known to move substrate and rearrange decorations, so heavy rocks should be positioned safely to prevent collapses.

The Picasso Triggerfish is an omnivorous species that benefits from a varied diet. Suitable foods include marine-based frozen foods such as prawns, mussels, squid, krill and other meaty preparations, alongside quality marine pellets and occasional suitable vegetable matter. A balanced diet helps support healthy growth, condition and natural behaviour.

This species is not suitable for a typical reef aquarium. Its powerful jaws and natural feeding habits mean that corals, shrimp, crabs, snails and other invertebrates may be attacked or eaten. It can also become territorial and aggressive as it matures, so tankmates should be selected carefully and should be robust enough to coexist with its temperament.

With its spectacular markings, inquisitive nature and strong personality, the Picasso Triggerfish is an impressive choice for a large, well-maintained fish-only marine aquarium. Provide suitable space, strong filtration and a varied diet to help this remarkable fish thrive.

Adult size                       25–30cm

Aquarium size               400 litres minimum; larger preferred

Temperature                  24–27°C

Temperament                Territorial; can be aggressive

Reef compatibility         No — may eat corals and invertebrates

Diet                                  Omnivorous; varied meaty marine foods

Care level                         Moderate

Best suited to                 Large fish-only marine aquariums