Species Description…

Scientific Name: Sufflamen chrysopterus

Common Name: Halfmoon Triggerfish

Species Group: Triggerfish

Habitat: Fish Only

Care Level: Intermediate

Temperament: Aggressive

Diet Type: Carnivore

Role in Aquarium: Predator

Max Fish Length: 12 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 180 (gallons)

Native Range: Indo-Pacific, including the Great Barrier Reef, East Africa, and Micronesia

Sufflamen Chrysopterus - The Halfmoon Triggerfish

Sufflamen Chrysopterus (The Halfmoon Triggerfish)

Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral reefs, lagoons, and sandy coastal areas.
Recognized for its bold body coloration, featuring a half-moon marking and striking blue highlights.
A semi-aggressive species known for its territorial nature, particularly in smaller aquarium setups.
Possesses powerful jaws that allow it to crush shellfish and other hard-shelled prey.
Best suited for aquariums with ample rockwork, open swimming space, and strong filtration.

Omnivorous, feeding on crustaceans, mollusks, algae, and small fish in the wild.
Thrives on a diet of frozen shrimp, squid, clams, krill, and high-quality marine pellets.
Requires a varied diet to maintain health, prevent boredom, and ensure proper nutrition.
Should be fed multiple times per day to support its active lifestyle.
Hard-shelled food items help wear down its strong, continuously growing teeth.

Prefers reef-associated environments with moderate to strong water movement.
Frequently observed patrolling rocky crevices and open areas in search of food.
Aquarium setups should include live rock structures for hiding spots and grazing opportunities.
Requires stable water parameters and a powerful filtration system to maintain high water quality.
Providing open swimming space allows for natural activity and reduces stress-related aggression.

Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to support metabolic stability.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires frequent water changes and strong filtration to prevent waste buildup.
Not reef-safe, as it may nip at corals and prey on invertebrates.
Providing rockwork and structured hiding areas helps minimize stress and aggression.

Semi-aggressive and best housed with similarly robust fish.
Compatible with large angelfish, tangs, puffers, and other assertive marine species.
Should not be housed with timid or slow-moving fish that may be harassed.
Best suited for predator-focused tanks where competition for food is minimal.
Providing multiple hiding spots and structured territories minimizes territorial disputes.

An active and intelligent species that interacts with its environment and recognizes its caretaker.
Frequently observed digging in the substrate, moving objects, or inspecting new additions to the tank.
May display dominant or territorial behavior, especially when feeding or defending a favorite hiding spot.
Providing enrichment such as varied food sources and structured tank layouts helps prevent boredom.
Over time, it can develop a strong personality and actively engage with its surroundings.