Rhinecanthus assasi (Fabricius, 1775)
Picasso triggerfish
photo by Field, R.

Family:  Balistidae (Triggerfishes)
Max. size:  30 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: Red Sea to the Gulf of Oman.
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Inhabits shallow sandy and rubble areas of coral reefs (Ref. 9710). Juveniles are commonly found on reef flats (Ref. 9710). Feeds on benthic invertebrates (Ref. 30573). Caught with artisanal gear, mainly pots (Ref. 30573).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 14 January 2022 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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