Clown Triggerfish

Also known as Big Spotted Trigger, Leopard Trigger

The Clown Triggerfish is arguably the most spectacular and sought-after triggerfish in the aquarium hobby. Featuring bold white spots on a dark body, bright yellow leopard-print patterning on the lower half, and a distinctive large-spotted mouth area, this species is instantly recognizable. While stunningly beautiful, it is also one of the most aggressive triggerfish and requires expert care and careful planning.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Balistoides conspicillum
• Common Names: Clown Trigger, Big Spotted Trigger, Leopard Trigger
• Adult Size: Up to 18-20 inches
• Lifespan: 15+ years with proper care
• Temperament: Aggressive to very aggressive; territorial and powerful
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe; will destroy invertebrates and damage corals
• Minimum Tank Size: 300+ gallons preferred for adults
• Experience Level: Expert; requires significant experience and commitment

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Requires massive swimming space with extremely secure rockwork and heavy decorations. Provide caves and hiding spots but ensure all structures are absolutely stable. Strong water flow recommended. All equipment must be protected or secured as this species can damage heaters, powerheads, and decorations.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Excellent water quality essential

Equipment Recommendations:

• Powerful filtration system (heavy bioload)
• Large protein skimmer
• Strong water circulation
• Extremely secure, heavy lid (powerful jumper)
• Protected heaters and equipment

These maintain water quality for this large, messy predator.

Diet & Feeding

Clown Triggerfish are aggressive predatory carnivores with extremely powerful jaws.

Recommended foods include:

• Staples: Large carnivore pellets, high-protein foods
• Frozen Foods: Whole squid, large krill, fish fillets, octopus, mussels, clams
• Hard-shelled Foods: Large snails, crabs, lobster, mussels and clams in shell (essential for tooth maintenance)
• Live Foods: Occasional feeder crabs or shellfish for enrichment
• Variety: Diverse diet critical for health and coloration

Feeding Frequency: 1-2 times daily; large, hearty portions

Special Note: MUST have regular access to hard-shelled prey to wear down rapidly growing, extremely powerful teeth. Without proper diet, teeth can overgrow and cause serious health issues.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Tankmates: Only with other large, aggressive fish; avoid anything it can swallow
• Extreme Aggression: Will attack and kill most tankmates; extremely territorial
• Reef Safety: Completely incompatible; destroys all invertebrates and damages corals
• Solitary: Must be kept alone or only with carefully chosen large, aggressive species
• Bite Risk: Can inflict serious injuries to tankmates and even handlers

Notes & Considerations

• One of the most beautiful fish in the marine aquarium hobby.
• Extremely aggressive and territorial; not suitable for most home aquariums.
• Requires expert-level care and massive tank systems.
• Can bite through PVC pipes, heaters, and equipment; everything must be protected.
• Will rearrange entire aquascapes regardless of weight or stability.
• Produces loud grunting, clicking, and squeaking sounds.
• Teeth are incredibly powerful and grow continuously; can crush thick shells easily.
• Becomes more aggressive with age; juvenile specimens are deceptively calm.
• May attack reflections in tank glass during territorial displays.
• Can recognize the owner but remains unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
• May bite handlers during maintenance; exercise extreme caution.
• Absolutely not suitable for reef tanks under any circumstances.
• Will eat any fish, crustacean, or mollusk it can catch.
• Requires specialized tankmates such as large puffers, groupers, or eels.
• Very long-lived; this is a multi-decade commitment.
• Sleeps on its side or wedged into rockwork at night (normal behavior).
• Expensive to acquire and maintain due to size and dietary requirements.
• Highly intelligent and aware; watches activity outside the tank constantly.
• Stunning coloration makes it a showpiece despite challenging care requirements.

Why Choose a Quarantined Clown Triggerfish?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-adjusted fish. All specimens are observed, treated as needed, and trained to accept varied prepared foods including hard-shelled items before sale. This provides the best possible foundation for success with this magnificent but demanding species.