Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Aggressive
Reef Compatible: No
General Description: The Assasi Trigger, also referred to as the Red Sea Picasso Trigger, is endemic to the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. Most similar in appearance to its Indo-Pacific cousin the Humu Humu Trigger (Rhinecanthus aculeatus), the Assasi trigger has a more elongated body and fewer posterior markings. Rather, the Assasi trigger has a cream colored body with vibrant blue and brown stripes that run vertically through the eyes, a pair of yellow stripes along each cheek, an orange ring around each eye and three horizontal brown stripes near the base of the caudal fin. The appearance of the Assasi trigger can simply be described as abstract and artistic, adding a lot of character to an already personable fish. Somewhat aggressive in nature, the Assasi trigger makes an excellent addition to a larger fish-only with live rock aquarium. Triggerfish, in general, are known to be somewhat vocal and the Assasi trigger is no exception, occasionally heard making a grunt sound. An adult Assasi trigger can reach a size of approximately 10″.
Diet Requirements: Assasi triggers are carnivores. A diet consisting of various proteins and frozen preparations such as brine shrimp, squid, mysis shrimp, krill, chopped fish, and clams will maintain optimal health and coloration. Occassionally give foods with hard shells to wear down their ever growing teeth.
Care Requirements: A minimum 125 gallon aquarium that is at least 18″ wide is ideal. Smaller specimens can be temporarily raised in smaller quarters (no less than 90 gallons) as long as it is upgraded accordingly. The Assasi trigger appreciates some live rock in the aquarium, especially caves and crevices to take refuge in if felt threatened; triggerfish have been known to reaquascape some live rock. Assasi triggers are best kept as one individual per aquarium; compatability with other trigger species is variable. Assasi triggers will consume invertebrates and nip at corals, which is why they are not recommended for reef aquariums. Many timid and peaceful fish species should be avoided as tank-mates with a Assasi trigger. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size:Â Small: 2″ to 3″; Medium: 3″ to 4″; Large: 4″ to 6″; XLarge: 6” to 7″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.