Picasso triggerfish
Rhinecanthus aculeatus
Sighting evidence at Muri Lagoon Reef, Rarotonga, Cook Islands
One of the most visually distinctive reef fish in the Pacific, with bold geometric markings that appear to have been hand-drawn. Triggerfish are highly territorial during nesting and will aggressively defend a conical nest on the sandy substrate against anything, including divers. Their large, powerful beak-like teeth can crack hard-shelled invertebrates and coral rubble.
Evidence at this site
No confirmed records on file at this site
Picasso triggerfish is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.