Rhinecanthus aculeatus (Ballist-picasso)

Fish belonging to this kind offer a fairly shy behavior and take refuge in a rocky anfractosity if they are frightened. Intraspecific relations are excellent, except during the introduction of a new resident. The oval body, very compressed laterally, bears an elongated muzzle, ended with robust jaws. The first dorsal fin is made up of 3 thorns, the first, erectile, is particularly solid. The second thorn allows you to block the first erect. The backbone and all the others are rounded and transparent.

Rhinecanthus aculeatus fish is a seawater fish from coral reefs in the peaceful and Indian oceans. It is also known as spine-fishing fish, rooster-tail fish or châtaigne fish. This fish is small, generally measuring between 15 and 20 centimeters in length. It has an elongated and side compressed body, with a wide head and a protractile mouth with teeth in the shape of fangs.

The Rhinecanthus Aculeatus is recognizable by its bright colors and its many thorns on the head and the body. The upper part of the body is generally gray or brown, while the lower part is white or yellowish. The thorns are generally bright orange, burgundy or purple, with white or yellow spots. The fish also has a single dorsal fin and a caudal fin fin the shape of a rooster tail, which gives it a distinctive appearance.

Rhinecanthus Aculeatus is a lonely and territorial fish. He spends most of his time hiding in the rocks and crevices of coral reefs, where he mainly feeds on small crustaceans and molluscs. It can also feed on plankton and small fish.