Triggerfish are a family of fish that belong to the order Tetraodontiformes. There are over 40 species of triggerfish found in tropical and subtropical oceans around the world. Many triggerfish species are popular aquarium fish due to their bright colors and unique shapes. However, not all triggerfish species are considered reef safe.
What makes a triggerfish reef safe?
When selecting triggerfish for a reef aquarium, it is important to choose species that are not overly aggressive and do not destroy coral. Some characteristics that make a triggerfish more reef safe include:
- Smaller size – Larger triggerfish can be more destructive in an aquarium
- Less aggressive temperament – Some triggers are very aggressive towards tank mates
- Species that prefer frozen foods – Triggers that prefer to nibble on live corals are not reef safe
- Non-excavating behavior – Triggers that dig or excavate substrates can harm corals
The most reef safe triggers tend to be smaller, less aggressive species that are not prone to digging or destroying tank decorations and corals.
Most Reef Safe Triggerfish Species
Here are some of the most commonly recommended reef safe triggerfish species:
Pinktail Triggerfish
The pinktail triggerfish (Melichthys vidua) is one of the most popular reef safe triggers. Some key facts about the pinktail trigger:
- Native to the Indo-Pacific
- Max size around 6 inches
- Peaceful temperament
- Omnivorous diet of frozen foods
- Does not bother corals or inverts
The pinktail trigger’s small size and less aggressive nature make it an excellent reef tank candidate. They add a pop of color with their bright yellow fins and powder blue face.
Clown Triggerfish
The clown triggerfish (Balistoides conspicillum) is another top choice for reef aquariums. Here’s an overview:
- Found in Indo-Pacific and Red Sea
- Max length around 4-5 inches
- Shy and peaceful temperament
- Eats frozen foods and flakes
- Safe with corals and inverts
Clown triggers stay small and tend to be very non-aggressive. Their white bodies with yellow and black striped faces give them a cute “clown” appearance.
Crosshatch Triggerfish
The crosshatch triggerfish (Xanthichthys mento) is a lesser-known but excellent reef trigger. Info about this species:
- Indo-Pacific origin
- Grows to 5 inches long
- Peaceful demeanor
- Does not bother tankmates
- Leaves corals alone
The crosshatch trigger gets its name from the crosshatch pattern on its body. It is a hardy fish that makes a nice addition to a FOWLR or reef setup.
Other Potentially Reef Safe Triggers
While not quite as recommended as the above species, the following triggers may also work in some reef tanks provided they are monitored:
- Sargassum triggerfish
- Bennett’s triggerfish
- Moustache triggerfish
- Yellowmargin triggerfish
- Yellowstripe triggerfish
These triggers vary in aggressiveness and diet. Keep an eye on their behavior if introducing them to a reef tank.
Triggers to Avoid for Reef Tanks
Here are some triggerfish species that should be avoided in reef aquariums:
Undulate Triggerfish
The undulate triggerfish (Balistapus undulatus) grows over 12 inches long and is extremely aggressive. They will bully and kill tankmates and should only be kept alone.
Picasso Triggerfish
The Picasso triggerfish (Rhinecanthus aculeatus) is one of the most notoriously aggressive triggers. Picassos can harass and kill fish up to twice their size.
Titan Triggerfish
The titan triggerfish (Balistoides viridescens) is the largest trigger species, growing over 20 inches long. It is ill-tempered, destructive, and completely unsuitable for reef tanks.
Blue Throat Triggerfish
Blue throat triggers (Pseudobalistes fuscus) grow to 16 inches long and are exceedingly aggressive toward other fish. They also readily nip at corals.
Key Considerations for Keeping Triggerfish
If planning to add a triggerfish to your reef tank, keep these key care guidelines in mind:
- Provide plenty of swimming space
- Have ample hiding spots and caves
- Maintain pristine water quality
- Feed a varied carnivorous diet
- Have a proper quarantine system
- Monitor behavior with tankmates
- Don’t mix triggers together
- Avoid keeping with extremely docile species
While triggers can coexist in reef tanks, they do require special care and consideration to thrive.
Conclusion
The most reef safe triggerfish tend to be smaller, less aggressive species such as the pinktail, clown, and crosshatch triggers. Larger, more aggressive triggers like the titan and undulate are unsuitable for reef tanks. Always research the temperament and care requirements of any triggerfish before purchasing.
