Triggerfish

Alternative Names: None

Monterey Bay Recommendation: Look for other "Best Choice" seafood options first. If none are available, gray triggerfish caught in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico and U.S. Southeast Atlantic is a "Good Alternative," but know that these sources have environmental issues. Don’t buy queen triggerfish. This species is listed as near threatened and caught with other overfished species.

Uses in Cooking: Grill, Saute, or bake this fish. The skin can produce an off flavor, so these should have the skin removed before cooking. This can be a difficult process.

Similar Fish: Cowfish, Sculpin, Sheepshead

Description: The meat of this fish is firm and really sweet tasting. It is truly unique and the long muscle fibers almost seem like a frog leg instead of a fish.

Fun Facts: Triggerfish get their name from their first dorsal spine, which they extend when threatened. Their second dorsal spine then extends, pinning the first one in place. The first spine cannot be compressed unless the second spine, or "trigger" is pressed first.