Identification
The body is deep and compressed, with a small mouth and the prominent first dorsal spine characteristic of triggerfishes. Close examination reveals body-scale ridges and a groove in front of the eye.
Size and Weight
Reported maximum total length is 50 cm, about 19.7 inches. Mississippi’s published record list documents a Black Triggerfish weighing 2 pounds, 9.14 ounces, approximately 1.17 kg, taken by spear in August 2023. This is a verified regional catch weight, separate from the species length limit.
Habitat and Natural Food
Loose groups can occur near reef slopes and drop-offs, sometimes feeding well above the bottom. Algae and plankton both contribute to the diet. Its feeding role can therefore vary between the reef surface and open water.
Fishery and Research Context
The species appears in fisheries and aquarium collections, but the material verified here does not establish a best recreational bait. Reproductive research on Brazilian island fish examined ovarian development, illustrating that observations from one island describe a local population.
Two Ways to Find a Meal
Black Durgon can use food attached to the reef as well as food drifting past it. This flexible feeding behavior helps explain why observing only one feeding event can give an incomplete picture of its diet.
All Lakes With Black Durgon
Browse all lakes and reservoirs with confirmed Black Durgon records in our database, listed alphabetically.
No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.