Gray Triggerfish
Balistes capriscus
Regions
Southeast
Protected status
None
Also known as
Grey triggerfishLeatherjacketLeatherneckTaly
Species Profile
Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.
FWC
Size
Up to 17 inches
Similar species
Other triggerfish Size: Up to 17 inches
Appearance
- Olive-gray in color with plate-like scales
- Small mouth with chisel-like teeth used for crushing
- Dorsal and anal fins marbled
- Upper and lower lobes of tail elongated in large adults
- Young have large dark spots on the back (sometimes persist in adults)
Habitat
Hard-bottoms, reefs and ledges in water depths that exceed 80 feet.
Behavior
Triggerfish can raise and lock their first dorsal spine; pressing down on the second dorsal spine acts as a trigger, unlocking the first spine.
Additional information
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Seafood Profile
Powered by NOAA FishWatch data. Availability and detail varies by species.
NOAA FishWatch
Population
In the Gulf of America* (formerly Gulf of Mexico), not overfished. In the South Atlantic, the stock has not been assessed, the population level is unknown, and management measures are in place.
Fishing rate
Not subject to overfishing.
Bycatch
Regulations are in place to minimize bycatch of sea turtles and smalltooth sawfish that may interact with fishing gear used to harvest gray triggerfish.
Taste
The meat of gray triggerfish is uniquely sweet. It tastes more like crab than fish. The meat is of excellent quality and is good fresh, smoked, and dried/salted.
Texture
Firm.
Color
The meat is white when cooked.
Sources
Image credit: NOAA Fisheries/Jack Hornady