Queen triggerfish (Balistes vetula) is a saltwater species recorded in the United States. It is mainly found over reef, at depths of 2–275 m.
Scientific name: Balistes vetula · Water: Saltwater
Size: up to 60 cm
The queen triggerfish is a balistid whose adults are found over rocky or coral areas, sometimes solitary over sand and grassy areas and sometimes forming schools. It feeds mainly on benthic invertebrates, and it preys on sea urchins by blowing water to overturn them and then attacking where the spines are short. It is recorded from 2 to 275 m. Its range is the western and eastern Atlantic. Maximum length is about 60 cm total length, commonly about 30 cm, and it can live 23 years, maturing at about 23 cm. It is a minor commercial species, a gamefish and a commercial aquarium fish, with a medium price category. Fishing vulnerability is moderate to high at 54 of 100 and resilience medium. IUCN lists it as near threatened.
Caution: large individuals carry a ciguatera risk. Heat, cold and marinating do not remove the toxin, which concentrates in the liver, roe and head, so avoid eating those parts. Seek medical help if numbness, tingling or a reversed sense of hot and cold follows a meal.
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