The diver Neil Meston has shared a clip showing a Grey triggerfish in Maltese waters, which didn’t seem to shy away from the filming diver. Described by the local marine biologist Alan Deidun as ‘inquisitive and feisty’, this fish is native to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
The Maltese have given this fish the charming nickname of ‘donkey’ or ‘ħmar’, due to its distinctive, donkey-like protruding front teeth. Its English name, however, refers to the fish’s dorsal fin, which it raises defensively when threatened by predators. Interestingly, the fin can also act as an anchor, allowing the fish to secure itself in small spaces.
In Neil’s video, one can see how the Grey triggerfish uses the undulation of its fins to propel itself through the water. While this graceful movement creates an entrancing visual effect, it doesn’t provide much power, making the fish a relatively poor swimmer compared to other species. Nonetheless, its curious nature and striking features make it a fascinating subject of underwater observation.
Have you ever spotted this underwater donkey?