Bursa Triggerfish

Bursa Triggerfish: The Aggressive Bottom Forager

The Bursa Triggerfish (Rhinecanthus verrucosus), also widely known as the Blackbelly Triggerfish or Blackpatch Triggerfish, is a captivating and hardy species. It is a highly territorial fish distinguished by the large, dark spot on its lower flank and is best suited for experienced keepers in fish-only or FOWLR (Fish-Only With Live Rock) systems.

This species is visually appealing, displaying a striking pattern of lines and colors, and grows up to 9-12 inches in length. The Bursa Triggerfish is a powerful and active swimmer, requiring a minimum aquarium size of 125 gallons or more to provide adequate room for movement and territory establishment.

The tank should feature securely placed rockwork and ample caves. Due to its powerful nature, this fish will rearrange light décor and substrate, and it is known to make a loud "grunting" sound when alarmed.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This trigger is a voracious carnivore and bottom-forager. It requires a varied diet of meaty frozen foods, including squid, krill, shrimp, and clams.
• Teeth Care: It is essential to regularly provide hard-shelled, meaty foods (such as whole clams or mussels in the shell) to naturally file down its constantly growing beak and prevent overgrowth, which can cause feeding issues.
• Reef Compatibility: The Rhinecanthus genus is notoriously Not Reef Safe. The Bursa Triggerfish will use its powerful jaws to crush and consume most ornamental invertebrates (shrimp, crabs, snails) and will likely pick at and destroy corals.
• Temperament: It is **Aggressive** and highly territorial. It should be housed with other large, assertive, and robust fish that can defend themselves. Unlike some other triggers, this species exhibits little sexual dimorphism.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Rhinecanthus verrucosus
• Primary Common Name: Bursa Triggerfish
• Other Common Names: Blackbelly Triggerfish, Blackpatch Triggerfish
• Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Max Size: 9-12 inches (23-30 cm)
• Temperament: Aggressive (Highly Territorial)
• Diet: Carnivore/Omnivore (Must include hard-shelled food)
• Minimum Tank Size: 125+ Gallons
• Reef Compatibility: Not Reef Safe