This week we got to see a number of different species of triggerfish on our dives in South Lombok. All species of triggerfish (in the family Balistidae) share a special fin layout and thus swim with a unique swimming style. The anal and posterior dorsal fins cover the lower half of the fish’s body, like upper and lower sails and it’s this fin layout that makes them especially beautiful fish to see underwater. The front half of the fish is smooth like a torpedo so you have the mesmerizing spectacle of a fish with a lower half that undulates and ripples through the water as a means of primary movement. The large tail fin only used to give them bursts of speed to avoid threats when needed. Add to that some incredible patterns on species like the clown (Balistoides conspicillum) and picasso (Rhinecanthus aculeatus) triggerfish and you have one of the most visually impressive fish to see on any dive.
Titan Triggerfish
The titan triggerfish (Balistoides viridescens) is one of the biggest (pictured above), growing to 75cm long and can turn over rocks twice it’s own size in search of food. During spawning season you may need to be cautious around this mostly docile grazer as they can be very protective of their eggs during this time. If you do come across a paternally aggressive titan you just need to swim away from it, along the reef. Triggerfish have been known to follow divers up to the surface so staying parallel to the ground and swimming away is the best method of avoiding an unpleasant “nip”. The rest of the year, however, you’ll find even the biggest of these fish are “skittish” around divers and will likely swim away from you if spooked. As with most fish species, triggerfish are often caught as primary or by-catch in Indonesia’s waters, as well as targeted for the aquarium trade, so we’re always happy to see healthy levels of these fish on our reefs.
In other news this week, we’ve finally enjoyed some rain on the ‘Dive Farm’ (AKA Two Fish Divers South Lombok), bringing some welcome relief from 4 months of continual sunshine. It’s made everything “fresh” again and brought a burst of green to the brown hills. We’ve also added a dartboard and firepit for some evening fun and had the pleasure of taking Helena and Seb on their Discover Scuba Dives to see the aforementioned triggerfish.
Do you want to join us for diving in South Lombok? South Lombok (Sekotong and Belongas Bay) are home to pristine reefs and some of the most iconic dive sites in Indonesia! For more information or to make a confirmed booking, fill in the contact form below and we will get right back to you.
