The Wonderful World of Triggerfish

By David Ogando Jr.

Triggerfish, forming the family Balistidae, are a personal favorite among saltwater aquariums,

named for a spine on their dorsal fin that can be used to wedge themselves into rocks. Famous

for their striking colors, how can one not love these fish that look like swimming works of art?

Triggerfish are capable of recognizing their owners and can even learn to feed from one’s hand.

However, they are not the ideal fish for every aquarium setup, and precautions must always be

observed.

Pinktail triggers grow l arge, but are less aggressive.
Assasi triggers are rare and endemic to the Red Sea
Ringens triggers are mostly reef compatible.

Most triggerfish, to start, require a minimum tank size of 55 gallons, though some of the bigger

or more aggressives species such as the clown triggerfish (B. conspicillum) need 135 gallons or

even more. Not every species has the same temperament either. While my personal favorite, the

Picasso triggerfish (R. aculeatus) is peaceful with fish bigger or equal in size to it, the undulate

triggerfish (B. undulatus) is infamous for its aggressive behavior towards tankmates and will not

hesitate to bite a hand. Balistids, especially the more aggressive species, have a tendency to

rearrange tank decor, so attention must be paid to avoid any broken heaters, siphons, or airline

tubes.

Unulate triggers are considered the most aggressive trigger and should be kept alone.
Clown triggers are aggressive and should be added last.
Blue throat triggers are more docile and mostly reef compatible.

Lastly, a large majority of triggerfish are not compatible with reef tanks. Possessing strong-

jawed teeth designed for crushing shells and coral, most will attack and eat crustaceans,

mollusks, and corals in one’s aquarium. However, there are some exceptions to this general rule:

the bluejaw triggerfish (X. auromarginatus) usually ignores sessile invertebrates but may attack

newly-introduced shrimp, and my other favorite, the Niger triggerfish (O. niger) is harmless to

corals and already-established cleaner shrimp, it may nip at sponges, snails, or other ornamental

crustaceans.

Niger triggers aka “Red Tooths” are good for beginners and are the best triggers for a community tank.
Picasso triggers are some of the very best for community fish ensembles.

In regards to a feeding regiment, all triggerfish thrive on a well-mixed diet of meaty foods.

Frozen squid, clams, and shrimp will not only provide a strong nutrition, but also assist in

keeping their teeth well-maintained. Algae-based and vitamin-enriched foods are another strong

supplement to their diet. As a very active fish, it is recommended to feed the fish at a minimum

of three times a day.

Triggerfish are not a difficult fish to maintain with the proper knowledge. Hardy, colorful, and

full of personality, these swimming works of art are sure to enhance one’s tank. At Absolutely

Fish, we generally carry 10-15 species of triggerfish every week: Please come in and enjoy them

and learn about them…

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