Balistidae

A Dictionary of Zoology | 1999 | 512 words | Copyright

Balistidae (triggerfish, filefish; subclass Actinopterygii, order Tetraodontiformes) A large family of marine fish, all of which have rather compressed, deep bodies with a large, stout, first dorsal spine that can be locked into a vertical position when erected. Some species show crypsis, others have brilliant colour patterns. There are at least 120 species, many of which are sometimes considered to belong to an alternative family (Aluteridae or Monacanthidae). They occur in tropical and subtropical waters.

Cite this article
Pick a style below, and copy the text for your bibliography.

MLA
Chicago
APA

MICHAEL ALLABY. "Balistidae." A Dictionary of Zoology. 1999. Encyclopedia.com. 30 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

MICHAEL ALLABY. "Balistidae." A Dictionary of Zoology. 1999. Encyclopedia.com. (May 30, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O8-Balistidae.html

MICHAEL ALLABY. "Balistidae." A Dictionary of Zoology. 1999. Retrieved May 30, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O8-Balistidae.html

Learn more about citation styles