Appearance and lifestyle:
The clown triggerfish (Balistoides conspicillum) is recognisable by its orange “clown lips” and large white spots on the lower part of its body. It has three spines in its dorsal fin, the first of which can be locked in an upright position to protect the fish from potential predators, or to wedge itself into the reef. Divers often hear grunting noises made by these fish through vibrations in the air bladder. Some triggers are aggressive and will even chase divers and snorkellers away from their territories.
Habitat:
The clown triggerfish is found on shallow rocky and coral reefs in the Indian and Pacific oceans.
Diet:
They feed on crustaceans and other hard-shelled animals. It particularly favours sea urchins and uses its strong teeth to bite off the spines.