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A defensive reaction
Its behavior can be explained quite simply: the triggerfish does not attack humans out of hunger, but as a defensive reaction. When it feels that an intruder is getting too close to its territory, the triggerfish may bite to drive the intruder away. This reflex is even more pronounced during the breeding season. The male then vigorously protects his nest, and attacks occur mainly in shallow water, near the shore. A triggerfish nest is often very inconspicuous, but there are some fairly reliable clues underwater. It most often resembles a small crater in the sand or coral debris, with an area defended by a highly territorial fish.
This behavior is particularly noticeable in the summer, as the triggerfish?s breeding season in the Mediterranean runs from May to August. This is precisely the time when beaches are most crowded, which increases the number of encounters between humans and fish. The bites can be painful and sometimes draw blood, but they generally pose no serious danger to humans.
Swimmers getting too close to its territory
This explains why this fish has earned its reputation as a ?biter.? It is neither a predator of swimmers nor a venomous animal, but a territorial, curious, and robust fish that defends its territory with whatever means it has. Its teeth are designed to break things, not to hunt humans.
A triggerfish bite is usually dramatic but is most often harmless to humans; the real risk is mainly local infection and pain. If you are bitten by a triggerfish, first get out of the water without panicking, then carefully clean the wound with soapy water and disinfect it.
Out fishing
Fishing for this species can be fun because it strikes quickly, puts up a good fight, and offers a spirited struggle despite its modest size. The main dangers, therefore, are bites and line cuts: the fish can crush bait, cut through line, or bite while being unhooked. You also need to watch out for its spines and sudden movements out of the water, as it can thrash about violently.
The fish most likely to bite at sea is the common triggerfish, and if it bites, it?s because it feels threatened or is protecting its nest. Its bad reputation stems less from natural aggression than from encounters?during peak tourist season?between a highly defensive fish and swimmers who get too close to its territory.
