Starry Triggerfish

Starry Triggerfish (Abalistes stellatus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking spotted pattern, bold personality, and impressive size. Males typically develop brighter and more distinct spotting as they mature, while females/juveniles tend to have more subdued coloration and smaller overall body size. They reach about 24 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 300 gallons.

Provide ample live rock for hiding spots, a deep sandbed, and open swimming space. A secure lid is essential since triggerfish are strong and may jump. Maintain stable water parameters: salinity 1.020–1.025, temperature 72–79°F, and pH 8.1–8.4.

Their diet should consist of meaty foods such as squid, clam, shrimp, krill, chopped fish, mysis, enriched brine, and high-quality pellets. They may also graze on algae or invertebrates, so caution is advised in reef tanks. With proper care, this fish makes a bold and eye-catching centerpiece in a large marine aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.