The Clown Trigger, Balistoides conspicillum, has one of the most recognizable body colors and patterns of all marine fish. Be careful if trying to hand feed because they can accidentally bite your fingers. Tanks with plenty of live rock crevices and over hangs to explore as well as plenty of open water providing swimming space is recommended. Growing up to almost 2 feet in length these fish need at least a tank of 200 gallons or more. They will also eat small fish and crustaceans so they are not reef safe. Keep them happy with a diet of crunchy saltwater foods to help keep their teeth trimmed. Feedings should happen 1-2 times per day and should consist of clams, shrimp, krill, or squid. The Clown Triggerfish (Balistoides conspicillum) is a popular choice for saltwater marine aquarium enthusiasts. In this comprehensive product description, we'll provide essential information about keeping the Clown Triggerfish, including details on its habitat, reef compatibility, size, lifespan, diet in captivity, aquaculture availability, compatibility with other marine life, sexual dimorphism, coloration changes from juvenile to adult, temperament, tank requirements, and ideal water conditions. We'll also cover common names for this species, list compatible tank mates, and explain why people should consider purchasing the Clown Triggerfish from Saltwaterfish.com. Clown Triggerfish Habitat The Clown Triggerfish is commonly found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It inhabits coral reefs, rocky substrates, and areas with ample hiding spots, making it essential to recreate a similar environment within your aquarium. Reef Compatibility of Clown Triggerfish The Clown Triggerfish is not considered reef-safe due to its natural foraging behavior. These fish may disturb corals and invertebrates, making them better suited for fish-only or fish-only-with-live-rock (FOWLR) setups. Size and Lifespan of Clown Triggerfish Clown Triggerfish can grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) in length in captivity, making them one of the larger species. They boast a relatively long lifespan, typically ranging from 10 to 20 years, with proper care. Diet of Clown Triggerfish in Captivity These triggerfish are carnivorous and have diverse dietary preferences. They readily accept high-quality marine pellets, frozen foods, and live or frozen seafood. Maintaining a balanced diet is essential to ensure their health and vibrancy. Aquaculture and Availability of Clown Triggerfish While Clown Triggerfish are not aquacultured, they are occasionally available to hobbyists through reputable suppliers and online retailers like Saltwaterfish.com as wild-caught specimens. Compatibility with Other Fish and Invertebrates Clown Triggerfish can be territorial and occasionally aggressive, especially when they feel threatened or while establishing their territory. Selecting compatible tankmates is essential to minimize potential conflicts. Suitable tankmates may include large angelfish, butterflyfish, and certain tang species. Sexual Dimorphism of Clown Triggerfish Clown Triggerfish do not exhibit significant sexual dimorphism, making it challenging to visually distinguish between males and females based on their external characteristics. Coloration Changes from Juvenile to Adult in Clown Triggerfish Juvenile Clown Triggerfish often display striking coloration, including vibrant orange, white spots, and intricate patterns. As they mature into adults, their coloration becomes less vibrant, shifting towards a more subdued yet equally attractive appearance. Temperament of Clown Triggerfish The Clown Triggerfish is known for its territorial and sometimes aggressive nature. Providing sufficient hiding spots and territories within the aquarium can help mitigate aggression, creating a more balanced environment. Tank Requirements for Clown Triggerfish To ensure the well-being of your Clown Triggerfish, you will need an aquarium with a minimum capacity of 200 gallons (750 liters) or larger due to their size. These fish require ample swimming space, hiding spots, and the freedom to establish territories. Water Conditions for Clown Triggerfish Maintaining stable water conditions is vital for the health of your Clown Triggerfish. Here are the recommended parameters: pH: 8.1 to 8.4 Salinity: 1.020 to 1.025 Water Temperature: 76 to 82°F (24 to 28°C) Water Flow: Moderate to strong, replicating the natural current of their native habitat. Common Names for Clown Triggerfish The Clown Triggerfish is also known by various common names, including the Bigspotted Triggerfish, Lagoon Triggerfish, and Clown Trigger. Five Compatible Tank Mates for Clown Triggerfish Emperor Angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator): Ideal for larger tanks, these stunning angelfish can coexist with Clown Triggerfish. Naso Tang (Na…