Gray Triggerfish (Rhinecanthus cinereus)

Fish in the family Balistidae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.

Gray Triggerfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameRhinecanthus cinereus
FamilyBalistidae
Care levelExpert
Reef safetyNot Reef Safe
TemperamentAggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size12 in
Minimum tank size125 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Gray Triggerfish are silvery-gray with a robust, stocky body and a large head with a small mouth. They possess a distinctive long dorsal spine that locks in an upright position and a characteristic triggerfish profile; males often display more vibrant coloration than females.

Diet and feeding

Feed a varied omnivorous diet including quality meaty foods (chopped squid, shrimp, clams) and vegetable matter. Offer 2-3 times daily in small quantities. They will also consume algae and invertebrates in the tank.

Difficulty and care for the Gray Triggerfish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine Ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Hole-in-the-Head Disease, Velvet Disease

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific from East Africa to Hawaii, including the Red Sea and Great Barrier Reef.

Log Gray Triggerfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Gray Triggerfish alongside everything else in your reef.