Description:

The Flagtail Triggerfish (Sufflamenchrysopterum) is a species of triggerfish found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-West Pacific. It is also known by other names, including Halfmoon Triggerfish, Golden Finned Triggerfish, and Eye-stripe Triggerfish.

Characteristics and Appearance
Size: They can grow up to 22-30 cm in length.

Body: Like other triggerfish, they have a deep, flattened, and oval-shaped body with a large head. Their skin is thick and tough, covered in large, rough scales.

Distinctive Features: The most notable feature of the Flagtail Triggerfish is its tail, which has a yellowish-brown triangular shape with a white margin. Adults are generally a pale yellowish-brown to brown colour. They may also have a bluish or yellowish-orange bar below the eye and sometimes a bluish chin and belly. Juveniles are dark brown on top and white below, with a horseshoe-shaped mark on their tail.

Trigger Mechanism: As with all triggerfish, they have a unique defence mechanism. When threatened or securing themselves in a crevice, they can erect their first two dorsal spines. The second, shorter spine locks the first, longer spine in place, and the first spine can only be lowered by depressing the “trigger” second spine. This allows them to wedge themselves firmly into a hiding spot.

Habitat and Behaviour
Habitat: Flagtail Triggerfish live in shallow coastal habitats, primarily on seaward reefs and in shallow lagoons. They are typically found at depths of 1-30 meters.

Diet: They are solitary fish that forage around coral reefs for food. Their diet consists of small invertebrates, such as crustaceans, mollusks, and worms.

Behaviour: Triggerfish are generally known for their territorial and sometimes aggressive behaviour, especially around their nesting sites. They can be very defensive and may charge at intruders, including divers. They are also known to be intelligent and can learn from previous experiences.