Black-finned Triggerfish
Melichthys indicus
Also known as: Indian Black Triggerfish, Indian triggerfish
A surprisingly mellow triggerfish that goes easy on its tankmates.
About
The Black-finned Triggerfish (Melichthys indicus) is one of the more agreeable members of a family known for being difficult neighbors, which makes it an interesting option for hobbyists who want the bold triggerfish look without constant drama. In the wild, it ranges across the Indian Ocean from the Red Sea and East African coast eastward through to Indonesia, where it lives a largely solitary life along seaward reef slopes rich in coral. It tends to shelter in holes dug beneath coral bases, a burrowing habit worth keeping in mind when aquascaping. The body is a deep, dark brownish-black with white or pale lines running along the base of the dorsal and anal fins, giving it a clean, understated appearance that reads quite differently from the loud patterning on many of its relatives. In terms of diet, this species is an omnivore that grazes on sponges, algae, crustaceans, and small invertebrates, so variety in the feeding regimen keeps it in good health. Because it occupies open reef slopes rather than tight reef structures, it appreciates a spacious aquarium with room to move. Considering its relatively calm disposition for a triggerfish, it can be a workable choice for newer saltwater keepers who are ready to meet its space requirements.
Similar species
Other fish you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Black-finned Triggerfish
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Black-finned Triggerfish get?
- The Black-finned Triggerfish reaches about 6–10" as an adult.
- What size tank does the Black-finned Triggerfish need?
- A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for the Black-finned Triggerfish.
- What water parameters does the Black-finned Triggerfish need?
- The Black-finned Triggerfish does best with a temperature of 72–78°F, a pH of 8.2–8.5, hardness around 8–12 dGH.
- Is the Black-finned Triggerfish aggressive?
- The Black-finned Triggerfish is generally peaceful and suits a community tank with similarly calm tankmates.
- What does the Black-finned Triggerfish eat?
- The Black-finned Triggerfish is an omnivore. It does well on a varied diet of quality flake or pellet plus occasional frozen or live foods.
- How long does the Black-finned Triggerfish live?
- With good care, the Black-finned Triggerfish typically lives 4-8 years.
- Is the Black-finned Triggerfish reef safe?
- The Black-finned Triggerfish is not considered reliably reef safe and may harm corals or invertebrates.