Picasso Triggerfish
In Hawaii the Picasso Triggerfish is the state fish and known as "Humuhumunukunuku apua'a". Say that three times fast.
Named after the famous Spanish painter, the Picasso Trigger has some truly remarkable colors and patterns on its body. This
triggerfish is one of the more easy going of the trigger fishes but it can still become dangerous in a tank full of smaller
aquarium fish and invertebrates. You will want to provide a larger tank (75 gallon minimum) with plenty of hiding places to
help reduce the aggressiveness that may well up inside this fish if it feels threatened. They can become very territorial
if kept in a tank that is too small. Keep them in a larger tank with some larger tank mates and it should co-exist peacefully.
The Picasso Trigger can sometimes be the "Bull in the China Shop". As they roam around, they may knock over live rock
or other ornaments in the tank.
Feed your triggerfish 2 or 3 times a day and provide a varied diet of frozen and live foods. They may go after fish flakes
and pellets. It's important to give them small frequent feedings to prevent malnutrition and fading colors.
The Picasso triggers are susceptible to most saltwater fish disease and respond well to most of the standard medicines
and treatments. Quarantine any new arrivals for a period of 2 - 3 weeks before introducing them into your main tank.
One last note, be careful when placing your hand in a tank with Triggerfish. They have a mouth full of teeth and may
bite if they feel threatened.