Indian triggerfish

Melichthys indicus

Class:

Ray-finned fishes (Lat. Actinopterygii)
Order:

Puffers and filefishes (Lat. Tetraodontiformes)
Family:

Triggerfishes (Lat. Balistidae)
Maximum size:

25 cm TL
Habitat:

Reef-associated; marine; depth range 1–30 m.
Climate:

Tropical;
Distribution:

Indian Ocean: Red Sea and East Africa eastward to western Thailand and Sumatra, Indonesia.
Biology:

Inhabits coral-rich seaward reef slopes. Occurs singly. Digs holes below coral bases for shelter. Feeds on sponges, algae, crustaceans and small invertebrates. Caught with artisanal gear.