Rhinecanthus rectangulus

Rhinecanthus rectangulus: Black Picasso Triggerfish

The Rhinecanthus rectangulus, better known as the Black Picasso Triggerfish, is a marine fish remarkable for its graphic appearance and expressive behavior. It features a dark brown oval-shaped body adorned with white geometric lines and touches of turquoise blue and yellow. Its morphology and colors have earned it the evocative nickname "Black Picasso."

This fish is very popular in aquarium fish only tanks due to its robustness, constant activity, and curious behavior. It is not recommended for a reef aquarium because its diet leads it to attack a wide variety of invertebrates and corals.

Care Conditions for the Black Picasso Triggerfish

To ensure the well-being of the Rhinecanthus rectangulus, an aquarium of at least 600 liters is required. This fish appreciates an environment rich in hiding places and open areas for free swimming while establishing its territory.

It is advisable to keep this species alone or with fish of equivalent size, as it can be aggressive towards smaller or too calm species.

Diet of the Rhinecanthus rectangulus

This omnivorous fish with a carnivorous tendency is not very selective. It feeds on:

• Crustaceans, mollusks, worms, and small fish
• Algae, detritus, and sponges
• Echinoderms and pieces of squid or mussel

It is recommended to feed it two to three times a day with a varied diet. Consider providing it with shelled prey to promote the natural wear of its teeth, which grow continuously.

A Fish for Experienced Aquarists

The Rhinecanthus rectangulus is an expressive, robust, and fascinating fish to observe, but it requires solid knowledge in marine aquaristics. To be avoided in a reef aquarium, it is perfect for a well-thought-out fish only community tank with companions of equivalent size.