---
title: Picasso Triggerfish (Rhinecanthus assasi)
scientific_name: Rhinecanthus assasi
common_name: Picasso Triggerfish
taxon: Triggerfishes
conservation_status: LC - Least Concern
published: 2023-12-29T12:39:26.257Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Picasso Triggerfish, Rhinecanthus assasi, Triggerfishes, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/triggerfishes/picasso-triggerfish
---

# Picasso Triggerfish (*Rhinecanthus assasi*)

**Taxon:** Triggerfishes (*Balistidae*)  
**Conservation Status:** LC - Least Concern  


The Picasso Triggerfish, scientifically named Rhinecanthus assasi and also called the Assasi triggerfish or Arabian picassofish, is part of the Balistidae family, commonly known as triggerfishes. This tropical fish is typically found in the western Indian Ocean, especially the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf, as well as surrounding areas like the Gulf of Oman. It thrives in coral reefs at depths ranging from 1 to 25 meters (3 to 82 feet), where it usually seeks shallow sandy and rubble areas, and juveniles are often seen on reef flats.

Reaching up to 30 centimeters (about 12 inches) in length, the Picasso Triggerfish is distinguished by its striking coloration: a tan upper body and a white lower body accented with blue stripes around the eyes. Its diet mainly consists of invertebrates found on the ocean floor.

Known for its timid and cautious behavior, the fish tends to stay close to shelter. It is commonly caught using artisanal fishing methods, such as pots. The name Rhinecanthus is derived from Greek, combining "rhinos," meaning nose, and "akantha," meaning thorn, likely referring to its distinctive shape or features.

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*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/triggerfishes/picasso-triggerfish)*
*Updated: November 25, 2025*