Triggerfishes
Arabian Picasso triggerfish (Rhinecanthus assasi)
The Arabian Picasso triggerfish (Rhinecanthus assasi) belongs to the family Balistidae (triggerfishes) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It reaches about 30 cm and is found at 1–20 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. Treat it with caution (danger): do not touch or handle it.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Rhinecanthus assasi |
|---|---|
| Authority | Forsskål, 1775 |
| Family | Triggerfishes (Balistidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce balestra Picasso |
| Common name (EN) | Arabian Picasso triggerfish |
| Maximum size | 30 cm |
| Depth | 1–20 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
| Hazard | Danger |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Diving hazard — Danger: keep your distance, and never touch, corner or feed it.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Lagune egiziane
- Arabia
- Golfo Persico
Diving safety
Danger. This ray carries a serrated tail spine. Injuries occur when it is stepped on or cornered on the bottom — shuffle your feet and give it room.
If it happens
- Leave the water and control bleeding with direct pressure.
- Immerse the wound in hot water (about 45 °C) for 30–90 minutes.
- Watch for signs of shock; call for help if they appear.
After
- Seek medical care: the wound often retains spine fragments and infects easily. Tetanus cover if needed.
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Arabian Picasso triggerfish belong to?
- The Arabian Picasso triggerfish (Rhinecanthus assasi) belongs to the family Balistidae (triggerfishes).
- Is the Arabian Picasso triggerfish dangerous?
- It needs caution: Danger. Keep your distance and do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Arabian Picasso triggerfish endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Arabian Picasso triggerfish get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 30 cm.
Explore the Arabian Picasso triggerfish in 3D in the interactive atlas →