Redtooth Triggerfish

Odonus niger 

Habitat & Distribution :  Indo-Pacific Ocean 

Diet : Moluscs, crustaceans, echinoderms, porifera, bivalves, zooplankton 

Size : 50 cm 

Lifespan : 5-15 years

Description

Typically deep blue, violet, or purple, but can change to shades of blue-green or greenish-yellow depending on mood and lighting. As their name suggests, they have needle-sharp, bright red teeth. Two long, chisel-like teeth in the upper jaw are usually visible even when the mouth is closed 

Behavior

They are known for their territoriality, particularly during mating, when they become aggressive, often biting at divers' fins. These fish are highly maneuverable swimmers that use their dorsal and anal fins for a distinct propeller-like propulsion 

Reproduction

Redtooth triggerfish reproduce through a distinct, territorial mating system, where pairs spawn in nests, and the female passionately guards the eggs, often becoming very aggressive toward intruders. 

Communication & Perception

Redtooth triggerfish communicate through a combination of audible vocalizations, dynamic color changes, and specific physical behaviors. While they are generally social and live in large schools, they use these signals to establish hierarchy, show aggression, or express alarm. 

Predator(s)

Sharks, groupers, large jacks, moray eels