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Pink Tail Triggerfish And Crosshatch Triggerfish pair 9/9/14 Re: compatibility 2/5/14 Adding a 7" Female Crosshatch Triggerfish With a 7" Pink
Tail & a 3" Huma Huma Triggerfish
8/15/13 Re: Help! Rabbitfish in dire way!! Now two triggers
tussling... BTW in a 240 gal. 4/3/13
Compatibility/Stocking where
to put my Xanthichthys auromarginatus and them more
questions.... 6/28/11 Tang and Triggers 10/23/10 Trigger fish compatibility
7/24/10 Clown Trigger, incomp. --
06/10/10 Compatibility... Pinktail Triggerfish and
smaller peaceful fish 09/15/09 Humu Trigger & Clown Trigger in 55
gallon systems. No Surprises: Trigger Compatibility\Behavior
8/4/2009 Trigger Compatibility 5/31/09 Lonely clown? Lonely Trigger? Trigger
pairings? 5/6/09 Triggerfish/Reef Safe 4/7/09 Trigger Compatibility... Again. 1/18/09 Now, I really am sorry for this one... I know that similar situations and recommendations abound within the FAQ's... But, I'll throw it out there anyway...Can a 2" Rhinecanthus Aculeatus/Picasso Trigger kill a 6" Arothron Manilensis/Striped Dogface Puffer? <Mmm, doubtful this would occur... but is a remote possibility> Or does it only matter than he thinks he can? <Hmmm> I know there's no guarantee with any Trigger, but I thought that Rhinecanthus were somewhat more mellow than the various Balistapus and Balistoides. I have had Picassos Before, but never anything like this... Evil. And would you say, as a very general rule, that any display of aggression will intensify with age? <This is most often the case> There's a scary thought... Barely two inches - The smallest fish in the tank... He tries to bite me... He forced me to return my beloved Mullidae/Goatfishes (well, actually, he had been chasing them for awhile - thought it would pass - one of them decided to split from the entire program and leave the tank on his own). He even brings out the worst in a Chromileptis/Panther Grouper... You ever notice the Panther's body is almost like a Pig or a Rhinoceros? With that low-slung mouth just like certain mammals have for rooting and grazing? My 5" Panther Grouper very quickly scoops and flings the Picasso just like a Rhino... (Just an observation). Now, on to the Puffer... During feeding, the Puffer gets his... No way around that... Could not care less about the Trigger. The Trigger, however, tries to steal the puffers food... So much that, even if I feed them on separate ends of the tank, the Trigger will stop eating to dart across the tank and try to prevent the puffer from eating. The Puffer keeps on munching like that green, hotdog eating thing in Ghostbusters. But the Trigger is clearly not happy and getting more and more aggressive - Biting and shoving the Puffer. Which is extra weird because the Trigger hasn't grown much in the last three months, whereas the Puffer has almost doubled in size. I guess my question is this: Is this going to get worse? I love both fishes. I don't know if a larger tank would make that much difference... Right now, they're in a 15g show (about 20" X 10" X 18")... <... Are you joking? This is too small by more than half for just the puffer alone...> I have also ordered a juvenile Pomacanthus Imperator/Angelfish to balance it out... No, I'm lying... They're in a 100G and I will definitely not be adding an Imperator in this system ever... <Ahh!> But I do have a lovely Pogonoperca Punctata/Clown Grouper/Soapfish that is still doing quite well his recent near-death experience... I know... I need a bigger tank. What do I do with this Picasso Trigger? Smack him with a rolled up newspaper? <I'd put him in "jail"... in a floating colander (plastic of course) for a week or so... See if that doesn't take some of the "spit and vinegar" out of him. It just might. Bob Fenner> Minimum Tank Size for... 8/18/08 Hi WWM crew! I'm currently in the process of researching to start my first saltwater aquarium and have become greatly drawn toward the triggers. The system I intend to purchase will be about 90 gallons, sumpless, with a hang on the back Octopus 800s skimmer, and eventually a hang on the back refugium. I was wondering if I could keep either a Sargassum trigger or a Picasso Trigger (Rhinecanthus aculeatus) in a tank this size? <Mmm, could, yes> The other fish I plan to keep are a Singapore, aka Vermiculated, Angel, a Kole Tang, and a third, undetermined species. Would these two fish cohabitate relatively peacefully with the two other known fish? Thanks a lot, -Ricky <Triggers are always a "wild card" in terms of their compatibility, but I give you good odds that the mix listed will get along. I'd place the Kole first, the Trigger last... Lots of live rock... Bob Fenner> Trigger/Angel-"safe" inverts 10/7/08 Hi, crew, I always come across questions such as "which triggers are reef-safe?" or "which angels are reef-safe?". <Neither really; while some species may work successfully in some tanks, both families evolved to eat invertebrates, so at least some of the things in your tank are at risk of becoming food.> I'll have an 8 foot x 2.5 x 2.5 foot tank, and am really interested in a Clown Trigger and an Emperor Angel. If I can't have both in this 375g tank, then at least the Imperator. <Clown Triggers are comparatively aggressive fish, and I don't really recommend any triggerfish outside one or two genera (Sufflamen, Melichthys) being kept in community settings. Does of course depend on the specimen. Emperor Angels can of course be kept in multi-species tanks, with the proviso that (as ever with Pomacanthidae) that they're "top dog".> So, my question is, what inverts/corals are most probably trigger or angel-safe? <Angels specifically go for sponges, so that's the main group to avoid; that isn't to say they won't have a go at other types of invertebrate, but provided they are well fed, and the tank is sufficiently large, any damage tends to be minimal. With triggers, shrimps, molluscs, annelids and echinoderms are all easy meat. Some triggers ignore cnidarians (corals, anemones, etc.) but many don't, and the Clown Trigger is one that will damage, likely consume, such animals given the chance.> The FOWLR does not appeal very much to me, and if I can't have inverts, then it will be a pure reef tank with reef-safe fishes only. <Would HIGHLY recommend that approach, perhaps building up experience of this aspect of the hobby generally before thinking about either a trigger or the Emperor angelfish. Do remember the Emperor angelfish has a poor survival record, in part because less experienced hobbyists are attracted to this animal without fully comprehending the demands it places on its keeper. There are many easier to maintain angels out there.> However, if I can have an Imperator as my "showcase" animal, and still have a reef, then that would be great. <Suspect it would be worth doing a bit more reading before anything else...> Thanks for any recommendations! <Cheers, Neale.> Missing Anemone 9/25/08 Hello!
<Hi> Recently I bought a Condy anemone and a week or 2 later I
added some red hermit crabs (2), well, over night the anemone
disappeared so I took out all my rock and such to see if maybe he had
sucked up inside one, but found no sign. So I figured it died, however,
there is no sign that an anemone had ever been in the tank. So my
question is: is it possible that my anemone was eaten by my hermits?
<Very doubtful.> I also have a Picasso trigger, niger trigger,
dog face puffer, Volitans lionfish, fuzzy dwarf lionfish, and a
snowflake eel. <The triggers or puffer are the most likely culprits
here. Also in future queries please spell and grammar check before
submitting as instructed here
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/WWMAdminSubWebIndex/question_page.htm , the
time taken to correct them before posting would be better used
answering more questions.> <Chris> Trigger Crazy, comp. --
09/23/08 Hey Guys, <Hello Lance.> Don't know what
you'll think of this and you'll probably think I'm nuts,
but here goes. I've got a 125 Gallon, Fish Only. Currently housing
a Redtooth Niger, a Hawaiian Black, a Piacaso <Ever heard of Pablo
Picasso, the artist? That's the guy this species (there are at
least 5 trigger species given this common name)was named for.> , and
a Blue Throat. Currently everyone is living a peaceful existence. The Piacaso <Picasso> seems to mother everyone by bringing out food
to the others, the Hawaiian is the big guy in the tank and seems only
concerned about the other Hawaiian in the reflection. The red tooth is
his normal passive self along with the blue throat. Having said all
that, how much trouble am I looking at in the future as I know
temperaments can/might/probably will change as they age and get used to
each other. Lance. <While I cannot exclude future aggression and
recommend to keep some of yours as mated pairs (if available) and as
the only triggers in the tank, your project might actually work. Your
choice of species excluded all the potentially super aggressive ones
like Clown trigger (Balistoides conspicillum), Orange lined trigger
(Balistapus undulates) and others from these and similar genera. The
Odonus may become problematic with age, but that's not for sure. A
problem you will have to face is that your triggers can reach sizes
around a foot and housing 4 one-foot fish in a 125 gallon tank will
push or cross the limits of physical and psychological crowding.
You'll also need very good filtration. Also see
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/fishes/triggers/index.htm and all the
sub-pages and FAQs for experiences with your species. Cheers,
Marco.> Compatibility - triggers, puffers 05/30/2008 Hi Guys, <<And ladies I hope....Andrew with you this evening>> I just have a quick query; your website has been really useful but I just want to ask something specific. I'm considering a marine FOWLR setup. I have fallen in love with three fish, and I just wanted to know 1. would they get along and 2. what sort of a tank size would best fit these guys (I'm guessing pretty big, but would like to see if it is within price and room!) The fish are a Pinktail trigger, a narrow-lined puffer (Arothron manilensis) OR dogface; both are cute, and the last is the fuzzy dwarf lionfish that's just too... fuzzy to resist. Could these three ever get along and in what size of tank? <<Three very nice fish indeed. I don't see any problems with the puffer and the trigger in a tank of about 200 gal plus ( they both can get pretty large, especially the trigger, which can reach about a foot, sometimes a little more, and about 3/4 of a foot for the puffer, in captivity)...I would not add a lion in with these due the to the aggressive nature of them, and I feel the Lion would ultimately meet its demise through harassment>> Thanks a lot in advance, your website has been such a great resource Jo <<Thanks for the questions, please do read more on these species here, including linked articles and FAQ's. http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/fishes/triggers/melichthys/index.htm http://www.wetwebmedia.com/tetraodontpuffers.htm http://www.wetwebmedia.com/dendrochirus.htm Hope this helps. A Nixon>> Triggerfish has become unsocial and not eating... sys. /env. 5/2/08 Hi Crew, I've read some of your answers to other problems (and i am definitely looking here first for all my fish info!) but unfortunately I haven't quite got the answer that I'm need for this situation... I have a 50-gal tank and all the levels are good. and there are many rocks, plants, and hiding places. I currently have 5 fish living in this tank, two 4-stripe damselfish, a blue devil damselfish, a 3 1/2 inch lunar wrasse, and a 3 inch rectangular trigger fish. <The last two need more room than this...> The wrasse is the newbie in the tank and he is doing really well. but before we got him, trigger was king of this tank and for the first couple days that the wrasse was introduced, the trigger would get very protective of his side of the tank and would chase him all over. and then they co-existed peacefully for about a week but for the last 4 days or so trigger has been MIA... he is hiding all the time and not been coming out to eat the frozen pieces of krill that he loves. <Not good for a standard diet> the wrasse doesn't bug the damsels at all, he just likes to swim all over. but the times that i do see trigger (when the tank light is off but the overhead light in the room is on and the fish are "sleeping") i can see glimpses of trigger moving to where he sleeps. at this i see an opportunity to feed him, but as soon as he sees me he goes back into hiding. I'm afraid that he is going to starve. should i take the wrasse out? <Perhaps> i have another 10-gal tank that has 2 ocellaris clown fish and a scooter blenny in it <... also need more room> but i think that tank would be too small and he would be unhappy. the other solution i thought of was to sell back the wrasse the fish store but that also doesn't grantee that trigger will go back to normal, plus I enjoy watching the wrasse 'fly' throughout the tank. i hope this is enough info and any help would be greatly appreciated! -Jamie- <Well... you seem to be aware of your options. Going forward, I'd either get much larger tanks, or investigate the psychological needs of the livestock you intend to keep... These systems are too crowded. Bob Fenner> Clown Fish Feeding, Tankmates 5/1/08 I have a question. I had two clown fish in my 75 gallon aquarium and they were really good eaters. I just got a Picasso trigger fish and for the first day the clowns were fine and they would swim with the trigger and eat with him and everything. <More likely they were sizing each other up.> Now all of a sudden they are a little afraid and won't go to the top for fish flakes anymore. <Triggers are quite intimidating and aggressive.> My trigger is getting all the food and I'm afraid that my clowns are not getting any. Is there any way that I can get my clowns to eat something? <Try some sinking pellets, and hopefully they will become a bit more aggressive eating with the trigger as the fish get used to each other. If the clowns are otherwise healthy I would not worry too much until a week has passed, they should be able to go this long without food without any negative repercussions.> <Chris> Humu Humu causing a stir, trigger incomp. 4/28/08 Hello. I read your FAQs all the time. It is a very valuable resource! <Gracias> Now for my little problem... I just purchased a 4-5" HumuHumu Trigger. Currently in this tank I have a small 3" Niger Trigger, <Uhh, in how large a volume... a 75 is too small....> a 4-5" Foxface, a pair of Gold Stripe Maroon Clowns, a Yellow Wrasse (4") and a Lawnmower Blenny (pretty large). I'm in the process of setting up my 150gal tank, until then these fish are housed in a 75gal, with large Euro-Reef skimmer, fuge and sump. Readings are perfect, no Nitrates, <Surprising> 420-440 Calcium, no ammonia or nitrites, 9-10 dKH, 8.3 pH. The tank is very stable. Once the large tank is setup, the Yellow Wrasse, Blenny and Clowns will be put in a reef tank, the rest will go in the 150gal FOWLR. <Good> Now here's my concern. The HumuHumu is causing quite a bit of stir in the tank, in his first day! First of all it doesn't seem to like the Niger Trigger <Uh, no, not at all> and chases it away. Doesn't seem to bother with the other fish at all, just the Niger. It's also picking up sand and spitting it out, making a cave for itself in the back of a rock, creating a big mess in the tank. The Niger did something similar at first too. So I have 2 questions... First, is his attitude towards my Niger temporary? <No> The Niger was a little anti-social at first too, but then settled in very nicely. Second, once it digs its cave, will it stop with the sand spitting or is this an ongoing Humu characteristic? Thanks in advance for any help. -Peter <These fishes need to be at least partition/separated schnell, pronto, right now... or moved to another setting. Bob Fenner> Pseudechidna brummeri in a 75 gal -- 04/28/08 Hello Crew, <Hi.> My question comes in regards to a white ribbon moray (Pseudechidna brummeri). Is it easier to keep than other ribbon morays? <Generally easier to feed. Almost all of the ones I've seen in the last years have been doing well.> I ask this because I saw one at my LFS which had been in their for over 5 months. <Ensure it eats various types of frozen food. That's the most important thing.> If it is would it be okay in a 75gal with an 7inch Indian Trigger? <Melichthys indicus, could work. Tank size should be okay for the eel if well filtered. Your trigger species is generally more mellow and tends to leave other fish alone, but generally many triggers may occasionally try to bite the fins of other fishes, especially small eels. While it is improbable your Melichthys will do that, in case it exhibited aggressive behaviour before, I would not try, and even if you decide to try, watch closely for a while to see how they get along. Provide enough live rock and caves as shelter. Cover the tank tightly, since Pseudechidna can escape even through the smallest gaps. http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/sept2004/fish.htm and a WWM search for Pseudechidna (your original spelling in this email was Pseudochidna, which is wrong and will not bring many hits) will get you further opinions. Cheers, Marco.>
Triggerfish compatibility - 1/24/08 Hello, I'm just curious about something. Would it be possible to keep a black triggerfish with a Picasso triggerfish in a 75 gallon? Would they fight because I have seen many fish store house many triggers together. If not are there any other fish of recommendation. <In a word, no. Many problems will arise here, both will outgrow this size tank and aggression will increase as this occurs, high nutrients due to doubly large appetite. Just wouldn't work, in a dealer's tank they are kept together for a very short amount of time and really this isn't best practice by a trade member as triggers should be separated> Thank you for your help. <Other fish, could be difficult with the trigger. See here: http://wetwebmedia.com/marine/index.htm http://wetwebmedia.com/triggercompfaqs.htm Olly>
Trigger Happy! (Multiple Triggerfish Compatibility?) 11/22/07 Hi guys...I am a longtime WWM/CMA follower/fan. <Glad to hear that! Scott F. here today!> I have a 130 FOWLR setup that has been established for about 4 years or so. Currently I have a Foxface Rabbitfish, a Humu Trigger, & a large Serpent Starfish. The star has a cave he hides in during daylight, so the fish never really see him & have not hassled him, even in the 2 years the trigger has been with us. <Good to hear- I've seen starfishes that became Trigger "chew toys" in some systems...Hope your luck continues!> Both fish are around 4-5". I have about 100 pounds of very nice live rock & some PVC tubes for extra hidey holes & Aqua-C skimming w/ mag-3 pumps. <Sounds nice> My question is, I would like to add a third (and probably final) fish to this system & have really got my eye on a second trigger. <Umm...tempting fate, I fear> I have not been able to find any kind of useful info on this subject anywhere...the type I am thinking of would probably be a Bluethroat or such similar (not a Clown or anything super aggressive). Would this be likely to work out ok? <Seriously, it's a total "crap shoot". Some Triggers may be easy going and tolerate other species/individuals in "their" aquarium, others will dispatch the newcomer quickly and mercilessly. The Humu tends to lose some of it's adolescent "playfulness" as it gets older, and its tolerance for newcomers decreases dramatically. In addition, my concern is the size of your aquarium. I believe it to be too small to sustain another Trigger for anything close to a natural lifespan. The smallest Triggers hit 8" plus, and simply need more room. Yes, it is possible to keep more than one Xanthichthys species in a single aquarium, but you really need hundreds of gallons, IMO, to be successful.> I should have plenty of room/"turf" & the Humu I have has been totally sociable for years now so he seems as calm as you'd get. <Again- this is subject to change, and you need to address the aforementioned caveat about space.> I am a bit worried about the current Trigger being so established but what I really need to know is, is there any reason 2 very different types of trigger with different food preferences/roles/niches would not be likely to get along? <I WOULD worry, as mentioned above. There are lots of reasons why the fish would not get along. Case in point: I distinctly remember "Bruddah Iz", my beloved Humu Humu from my college days. He was highly intelligent, ate from my hand, recognized me when I came in the room, and obviously considered me a fool! Nonetheless, he was my buddy for many years (9-1/2). He had an amusing habit of moving rocks with his nose. He also took a tremendous dislike to a submersible Ebo Jager heater, which he would "head butt" and generally batter to the point where I finally had to remove it (not an uncommon behavior with Triggers, BTW)! His "tankmates" committed suicide one by one, jumping from the aquarium until I realized that he was just not a nice roommate, came to my senses, and took the remaining fishes out. While Triggers are very endearing fishes, but they develop habits that can lead to tremendous problems for other tankmates. Unless you have a very large system, I'd pass.> Would it be like having 2 yellow tangs or Rabbitfish both competing for the same algae? Or would they be ok together? <as above...potential problems outweigh the odds for success in this sized aquarium, IMO.> If the Bluethroat seems like a bad idea, is there another Trigger that would be better? Or failing that, what would you recommend? <Tangs, some Puffers, and a larger aquarium! I just wouldn't tempt fate here.> Thanks a ton in advance guys!! <Glad to be here for you! Best of luck. Regards, Scott F.> Pink Tail vs. Blue Throat Trigger In A Reef Tank...And A Whole Lot More! -- 11/07/07 Good morning, <<Greetings...evening now>> Thanks for this service, I've tried the forums and search tools and seem to come up with semi-relevant stuff but nothing that prescribes to my particular situation. <<Well then...let's see what I can do to remedy this>> I have a 375G tank <<Hey...me too!>> that I'm putting together and I'm trying to build a fish wish list, and have run across a couple "well I don't knows". <<I see>> I have previously pretty much stayed away from any large fish, triggers and tangs specifically. <<Probably best (till now)...in many cases, hobbyists just try to cram these fishes into 'too small' environments...with the ensuing sociological and health issues>> I'll be moving fish from my 55, 90, and 120 into the 375 when I get it up and running, here is a list of what I have currently. 55 gallon: Waldo -- Possum Wrasse-Wetmorella nigropinnata Candy -- Candy Basslet-Liopropoma carmabi Circles -- Leopard Wrasse- Macropharyngodon meleagris Bruno -- Green Mandarin fish- Synchiropus splendidus Rupert -- Brownbarred/bullet goby- Amblygobius phalaena Finnegan - Bicolor blenny- Ecsenius bicolor Penguin -- tuxedo urchin- Tripneustes gratilla Steve -- serpent star- Ophiuroidea sp. Various Snails Various Hermits, many blue legs- Paguristes cadenati, Calcinus elegans Peppermint shrimp- Lysmata wurdemanni 90 Gallon: Charley and (3) the girls -- Lyretail Anthias- Pseudanthias squamipinnis Ava and Alfie = Bellus Angels- Genicanthus bellus Esther -- Lawnmower Blenny- Salarias fasciatus Moe - Flame Hawkfish- Neocirrhites armatus Major Major -- Goldspotted Rabbitfish- Siganus guttatus Merlin -- Melan Wrasse- Halichoeres Melanurus Stan -- serpent star- Ophiuroidea sp. Skunk cleaner shrimp -- Lysmata amboinensis various Hermits- Paguristes cadenati, Calcinus elegans, and a Halloween (can't find a scientific name) various Snails Emerald Crab- Mithrax sculptus 120 Gallon: Scooter and Ruby -- scooter dragonets- Synchiropus ocellatus Schmuckers -- Fire/Blood Clown- Amphiprion ephippium Charlotte -- Mystery Wrasse- Pseudocheilinus ocellatus Hannah -- Hanae Goby- Ptereleotris hanae Katie -- Scissortail Dartfish- Ptereleotris evides Mickey -- Longnose Hawkfish- Oxycirrhites typus Casper -- Sandsifting Goby- Istigobius decoratus Leonard -- Starry Blenny- Salarias ramosus Bubba -- Powder Brown Tang- Acanthurus japonicus Spike -- Onespot Foxface- Siganus unimaculatus Sushi -- Yellowstreaked Fairy Wrasse- Cirrhilabrus luteovittatus Larry -- Fire/Blood Shrimp- Lysmata debelius Skunk shrimp- Lysmata amboinensis Bandit -- Blue Coral Banded- Stenopus hispidus 1 or 2 Yellow Coral Banded- Stenopus scutellatus Hermits etc. Snails etc. Emerald Crab etc. <<Quite the collection of animals among these three tanks. There will be some compatibility problems when/if these are 'all' mixed together, I think. The Salarias spp. Blennies will not likely tolerate each other, and the Onespot Foxface and Goldspotted Rabbitfish may not get along. One way to ameliorate possible aggression/compatibility issues will be to introduce fishes together that inhabit the same environment/niche (e.g. - substrate dwellers) and or consume/compete for the same food items (e.g. -- algae patches)>> The candy Basslet and the possum wrasse I'll probably move to one of my other tanks, I have a lot, as I imagine they would have the most problems with what I want to do. <<Maybe not...is hard to say for sure who 'will' or 'will not' get along in a large tank. I thought for sure a small group of eight Fathead Anthias (Serranocirrhitus latus) would get along in a 375g gallon tank...I was wrong. Yet, I have had success with pairs of the Scribbled Rabbitfish (Siganus doliatus), the Spotted leopard Wrasse (Macropharyngodon meleagris), and the Blue Throat Triggerfish (Xanthichthys auromarginatus), as well as a mix of five Tangs from four genera >> The Ladies of the house want a trigger, have ever since I got into the hobby and now with a 375 I think I can accommodate their wishes. <<Likely so>> I've been looking at pink tail and blue throat triggers specifically as the crosshatch is out of the range I'm willing to spend. <<Okay>> I've found varying opinions on which one of these two triggers is best for my tank. <<I've not kept the Pink Tail, but my experience with the Blue Throat in a reef system has been exceptional>> I've mainly heard that pink tails tend to be more prone to moving rock and corals around, but have a tendency to be less aggressive than the blue throat. <<Maybe so...but 'aggression' was never an issue with the Blue Throat in my experience...other than that shown by the male towards the female...and that was very minimal>> I have the intention of "locking" the rock together by drilling holes and connecting them with acrylic rod, and using epoxy to hold the coral on the rock. I'll be keeping SPS and some LPS, no softies of any sort. <<An environment/theme very similar to mine...>> I understand that while my shrimp may be large enough currently to fend for themselves that when the triggers get large enough they will eat the shrimp, and I have been considering moving them to my various other tanks or giving them to friends. <<Again, speaking from my own experience...the Blue throat never touched a snail or shrimp (I don't keep crabs other than the incidental 'Acro' crab). Just be sure not to 'drop them in the tank like food items' once the/a triggerfish is present>> So I welcome any plus or minus you can offer on either one of these. <<...hope I've done so>> My next question deals with tangs, as you can see I only have the powder brown currently, I've stayed away from tangs almost entirely due to the size of tank they need <<Wise>> and only got this one as he is pretty small and I had the intention of moving up to this larger tank. I have seen some people have had success with keeping multiple tangs and I would like to do something similar. <<Can be done, yes>> The problem comes in is that the tangs I like are of the Acanthurus family, as well as looking for whether these fish will get along I'm also looking to keep in mind their size with my tank, I do want a full tank but I don't want to overstock or be treating the fish poorly due to my desires. <<Good>> So here we go, as well as the Powder Brown I'm looking at the Atlantic Blue tang Acanthurus coeruleus, Naso lituratus, Kole tang Ctenochaetus strigosus, and possibly a small school of Zebrasoma flavescens yellow tangs, but they would be the force I would choose not to get if I would be pushing my tang limit at that point. <<I think the Naso, Kole, and a 'single' Yellow Tang would be possible...best to err on the side of caution at this point in time>> I'm also looking at adding 2 more female bellus angels, a pair of Scott's fairy wrasses, and possibly another school of Anthias, which is another question, I'm debating doing a school of a different species the Pseudanthias huchtii green threadfin Anthias. <<Mmm...>> Please provide any thoughts, comments etc. <<I would stop with the tangs (for now at least). Though you have mostly small fishes now that you plan to stock in this new system...you do have 'a bunch.' And there's also the Triggerfish to consider>> I'm a little worried about putting all these in overstocking my tank but then I've seen tanks with much more fish than this at this size and smaller tanks, I'm looking for a balance between what I want and what's ethically permissible. <<Best first to make sure your equipment/filtration/husbandry practices are enough to support this fish load>> Also if you think that even at this point I could add another fish or two please say so, even comments on what you would suggest adding would be welcome. <<You have my thoughts>> Thanks, Joshua <<Do make it known if I can assist with the further development of your system. Regards, EricR>> Pink Tail and a Blue throat trigger
together? 9//15/07 Hi there! As the question asks, my store
got in at my request a pink tail trigger and a small blue throat. I
picked up the pink tail since it looked to be the most active and ate
like a pig. I only intended to get one of them but now I am
thinking<insert doom drum line here>. The blue throat was hiding
in a corner and was basically staying out of sight. It is a small
specimen, maybe 2.5 inches or so. Provided its still there and maybe
over its fright from shipment tomorrow or Sunday, would it do ok with
the 3-4 inch Pinktail? <Not good odds...> My tank is suitably
sized for now for the two of them with a very oversized skimmer and I
plan in the next 3 or 4 months to upgrade to somewhere between a 150
and 225 gallon so I don't think tank size is an issue. Thanks much,
Mike <Better odds with larger volume... but still likely some
trouble territorially. Bob Fenner> Trigger Aggression, Odonus 8/19/07 Hi gang, <Wes> Love your site! It's my go-to place for marine questions. Unfortunately I've read several of the trigger FAQs and also done searches of the site but can't seem to find the answers I'm looking for. I was hoping you can help me out? My fish list is as follows: 5" Dogface Puffer <Likely to get bullied> 4.5" Niger Trigger <Likely a bullier> 4.5" Sohal Tang <Likely the alpha individual here> 4" Bluethroat Trigger 3.5" Blue-spotted Grouper 12" Snowflake Eel <This last will have a difficult time feeding here> They're all in a 180 FOWLR. Over the last couple months, I've noticed the niger has been getting more aggressive towards my Bluethroat and grouper, chasing them around. This is not limited to just when they swim by its "home." However, they will sometimes be right next to the niger without getting chased at all. The grouper and Bluethroat will occasionally have missing or nicked chunks of fin, which I'm assuming is the Niger's doing (possibly the Sohal's, on occasion). <Yes> All of the fish have been together for about six months or so (with the niger being added three months ago and the sohal about a month ago). The sohal will also occasionally chase the trigger and grouper, but not nearly as much as the niger. None of the other fish are harassed at all. I feed plenty of formula one and two pellets every other day with occasional frozen foods. All of the fish have become pretty fat, so I don't think this aggression is due to long-term lack of food. In fact, I notice more chasing behavior after everyone's eaten. Almost none during (everyone's busy eating) and none before as they're all in that familiar pre-meal school, looking at me. Should I be concerned about this behavior from the niger? <Yes... will likely only get worse with time... missing eyes...> Should I start thinking about removing it? <I would, yes> If things are okay for now, what signs should I be looking for that would prompt a removal? Is there anything else I can do to reduce this aggression? I have tried removing the niger for a couple weeks then reintroducing, which didn't seem to help. <Perhaps moving the bulk of the decor, rock around every time you're in the tank seriously...> Not sure if it makes any difference, but when I first got the niger, it was actually slightly smaller than the Bluethroat. Initially, they seemed to get along with the Bluethroat being slightly dominant. By about a month in, the niger was clearly dominant. <Xanthichthys are generally not territorial... the genus is more open water...> Sorry for the long post, but figured I'd be thorough! Wes <I'd remove this Odonus; allow the Sohal to be number one... see how this works out. Bob Fenner> Sargassum trigger comp.; Dog face
puffer size -- 07/30/07 Hi, sorry for another email, but here goes.
I'm looking for some info on a Sargassum Trigger. <Xanthichthys
ringens.> A LFS has one and it is a gorgeous fish. I first read the
bit on WetWeb about its identity, and then the Compatibility FAQ on
triggers. There was one mention of the Sargassum in the compatibility
FAQ, most are in regards to undulates, clowns, and Picasso's,
which, to my understanding are quite different in temperament.
<True. The Sargassum trigger is more similar to the Bluethroat or
Gilded Trigger Xanthichthys auromarginatus. Both will reach around 1
foot, but most often stay a little smaller.> In my 200 gallon
(72" x 24" x 27") I have a banded cat shark, a passer
angel (5"), a yellow tang and a dogface puffer (4"). I've
had this puffer for about 4 years, and he is really docile. He has been
a 4" fish his entire life, and I wonder if that is his adult
length. Hmmm. <Sure it is a dogface puffer aka Arothron
nigropunctatus? This one reaches 10 inches in the aquariums and more
than a foot in the wild. I have seen other Arothron spp. labeled as
dogface, too. However, most are even bigger. Hopefully his diet is
varied.> My question is whether or not a Sargassum would be
compatible with these fish, and more specifically about a Sargassum's characteristics. <Comparable to other Xanthichthys
spp. (using the genus to search for information is worth a try) and in
general rather docile (for a trigger) and hardy. Crustaceans, clams and
urchins may be eaten (most get along well with them, though), larger
fish are usually ignored. Beware all triggers are personalities and may
change their mind when becoming adult. Your puffer is another species
with a somewhat unpredictable personality and it is hard to say for
sure they will get along without trouble long term. Another concern is
that the trigger might bite the fins of the shark. If you are lucky, it
will work without problems, if not'¦ I would not buy this fish
without another system or the option to give it back.> I purchased
Axelrod's Marine Atlas (for 6$ on eBay, no less!!), which is a
fabulous book but very short in specifics on care, it is much more of
an identification book. <Yes.> The other book at the LFS
describes the fish as reef safe and much more compatible than other
triggers. His jaw structure definitely looks different than a
'typical' trigger like a clown or Picasso. I have not purchased
the fish, and maybe I won't at all, but it is certainly tempting
and I thought I might ask you guys first. We had the tank under the
quinine treatment for ick (still do, actually). The Powder Brown did
not make it, unfortunately, but all other fish are doing extremely
well, including the shark (and thanks again for the quinine info).
I'm going to continue the quinine treatment for the prescribed
duration before we think of adding anything. <Good and good luck
with your treatment. Be sure to let the system run for a while even
after the treatment to see if it worked properly before adding
anything.> Thanks again. Thomas. <You are welcome.
Marco.> Trigger Compatibility, Inappropriate Stocking 7/18/07 I love the website and read on it almost every night. <Thanks> My question is would it be okay to put a niger trigger with a Picasso trigger in a 45 gallon tank. <Neither should be in this sized tank, definitely not both.> Now I have a Picasso trigger ocellaris clown Kole tang in my tank, the trigger is about 1 and half inches long. <It will outgrow this tank very soon, as will the tang. You really need a 100+ gallon tank to keep the livestock you currently have.> If I were to give my tang to a friend would the two triggers go well together. <Not in this tank, and maybe not in a larger tank, the Picasso in particular can be quite aggressive.> <Chris> Depressed Odonus Trigger -- 06/29/07 Hello to all of you! I have an established 90 gallon system. My 9 year old Lipstick Tang, sadly, recently passed away. <... Sorry to realize> All that I have in the tank now are a 3" Black Trigger and a Sixline Wrasse. The Black Trigger and the Lipstick Tang were swim-mates. He enjoyed competing with her for food. All co-existed peacefully together. The Lipstick Tang was there first and was "queen". The Trigger is obviously depressed about the Tang being gone and is lonely. <Oh! Is this a Melichthys niger? Not an Odonus niger? Not really germinal to the situation...> The other day I watched him swimming back and forth, depositing small pieces of rock into the area where the Tang slept, until he had made a rocky area the size that her body was, as if he was making a grave marker for her! <Interesting> He's very protective of her spot. He eats with less enthusiasm, goes into his sleeping spot a lot, and is also chasing the Sixline Wrasse around some, though not to hurt him. I feel that's more frustration on the Trigger's part. So I feel I need to put another fish in soon. I need some advice and input on what to put in. Should it be about the same size as the Trigger? <Mmm, not able to tell...> A LFS has a Yellow Tang that's a little smaller than the Trigger, and I've also found a Lunar Wrasse, not full grown. I really don't know what to add. What are some good fish to add? <I'd choose the Zebrasoma over the Thalassoma...> I worry about the Trigger being too aggressive with a new fish and there being disastrous results. I appreciate any help. Robin <Mmm, whatever you add, do so early in the AM on a day you can be around to observe... and leave the light on overnight... Bob Fenner> Moray Tankmates, which moray? -- 5/14/07 Hi, would a undulated moray get along with a clown trigger, niger trigger or a powder blue tang? I would like to pick just one of them for a tank mate. And which one would be the best choice. <<RMF would NOT place a Muraenid with Balistids...>> <Depends...which moray? http://www.wetwebmedia.com/morays.htm There are quite a few in the genus...and it does make a difference re: my advice.> Thank you <Adam Jackson.> Sudden death of a Damsel 4/21/07 Hi crew, <Kwon> Thanks for all the helpful info you've posted on your site. Here's my situation: I have a 55 gal fish only with LR. I have one damsel and one trigger (small, 2-3 inch)...and yes, a bigger tank is in the works. Today, I fed them with frozen trigger formula like I always do. I went out for about 4 hours, when I return, I found my damsel dead. I remember it was eating like a pig, as always, before I left the house. So I dug him up and did not notice any physical damage. All I've notice was that the gill portion of his body looks a little bulged. What do you think might have killed him in such short amount of time? <Mmm, impossible to say... perhaps a rupture in its blood/vascular system... a "heart attack"... Fear of the trigger tankmate...?> I see him every day and there were no symptoms of any thing wrong. My trigger seems to be fine for now. He is sleeping in the rocks. Should I perform a water change? <I would test the water for what you have kits for...> Please advise. Thanks. Kwon. <Do know that such rapid deaths in Damsels are not uncommon... especially when small, good numbers of these fishes "do just die" w/o apparent reason at times. Bob Fenner> Which puffer for these triggers? 4/21/07 Hi everyone, I would firstly like to say what a truly fantastic website this is - after many hours of searching on the internet this really does seem to be the best source for reliable, detailed information. <<Why, thank you.>> I am about to purchase a 100 gallon tank, and intend to put a clown trigger, and a Picasso in there. However, I was intending on firstly putting in a puffer, although I'm not sure which type would be aggressive enough to stand up to the likes of a clown. <<Your tank is just too small I'm afraid. The clown gets to 16", and the Picasso to ~12".>> Thank you very much, Gerald. <<Glad to help. Lisa Brown.>> 2" Undulate and a 2" Picasso with a 7" Niger 4/1/07 Greetings WWM crew!, <Greetings. Brandon here.> Many thanks for your help on my previous inquiries. I have one more for you. I have a 110 gal tank (about 100lbs of live rock), and I've had a Niger in it for the last 6 years and he's about 7" now (I think it's a he). I'd say he's on the peaceful side (given that it shared it's tank with a Percula clown until the clown died of old age. But he did kill and eat a few other fish since the clown, but that was mainly my fault for pushing my luck with other clowns. I recently added two 2" triggers (an Undulate and a Picasso). <You are asking for it.> Right now, the undulate hides whenever Niger comes out of his caves, but Picasso is quite social with Niger and they get along fine. But, as expected, once or twice, I've seen the undulate attack the Picasso hard (no biting) just hit him on the belly, but that's when Picasso gets too close to its home rock. <The fish can cause internal damage by doing this.> Other times, they pass each other without an incident. Could you make any predictions about the tank over the next few years? <The Balistapus undulatus is going to grow up, and kill your other fish. These Triggers are not social, and they have very bad attitudes. I would move this one to a species tank and keep nothing else with it. Further, I would not add anymore Triggers to the main display. They need their space.> Thanks much, <You are welcome. Brandon.> ND African Blue Spotted Triggerfish, comp. 3/26/07 Hi, I have a compatibility question on a species of triggerfish which seems to just be entering the trade in numbers recently. <Yes> The Trigger is Balistes punctatus. As a relative of the Queen trigger my initial reaction is that it is likely far too aggressive for even a rough and tumble fish only tank. <Mmm, have never kept this animal... but the reports I've encountered (on the Net) state its temperament as being mild...> I have been assured by a couple of dealers however that they are quite mellow. Do you have any experience with them? <Unfortunately no> If I were to take the plunge the trigger would be heading to a 300 gallon tank with an Emperor Angel, Passer Angel, Harlequin Tusk, Polleni Grouper, and very large Hippo Tang (who is now 16 years old!). The group in the tank get along now in their own snippy ways and have been together for a couple of years. Thoughts? <Mmm... don't know what to state... I don't like relating other than near first-hand experience in such matters... I might try this species here... starting with a (likely) small specimen of a few inches in length... keeping an eye on it... Bob Fenner> Triggerfish stocking Q's 3/3/07 <Greetings.> I have a 300 Gal Saltwater FOWLR setup. I'm running two overflow boxes, each having dual 2" drains. I took out the smaller bulkhead fittings, and used a Dremel tool to make the hole fit 2" pvc pipe. So I have 4, 2" inch drains to a 50 gal breeder aquarium as my sump. My return has 2, 1.5 " return-lines coming from a Mag Drive 2400 pump. <Ok.> With this setup can I safely house multiple triggers? <For a while... two years?> I have in the aquarium, 1-Niger, 1-Bursa, 1-Picasso, and 1-Undulated. They are all around 3-4 " in size. <Mmm. I will give you two answers: 1. No! This is too many triggers in one system, regardless of size! 2. You can make this work for a while as long as they are well-fed and water quality doesn't suffer as a result of the heavy feeding necessary to keep them all from killing each other.> I'm aware of the Undulated being aggressive, as they destroy emerald crabs and small crabs weekly. In your professional opinion, Would you consider this to be ok? <Honestly, I think you are really overdoing it. You should decide which ones you really want in that system (No more than two) and make some definite separate territories. Hopefully you have some other systems you can house the others you decide to parse out? The Niger and the Bursa will probably get along fine, and maybe even the Picasso (R. aculeatus?) would live happily. As you stated, it's the mean ol' Undulated that you have to really watch out for. But, you already knew that, or you wouldn't have asked. Huh?!?> Thanks for having a extremely informal and educational website. <Thanks for the compliments! -GrahamT> Adding A Whitetail Trigger - 12/24/06 Today I purchased a 2-inch Whitetail Trigger for my 165 gallon FOWLR. <<Neat!>> I probably have somewhere between 150-200 pounds of rock. <<...! What about "room for the fish?">> Counting the trigger my tank has 7 fish total, and I'm not planning to add anymore. I have a pair of Black-White Clowns (2 1/2 to 3 inches), a Half Black Dwarf Angel (3 inches), a One Spot Rabbitfish (5 inches), a Swallowtail Large Angel (4 inches) and a Yellow Tang (5-6 inches). I have always wanted a trigger, and have done quite a bit of reading, but would like to know your opinion. All 6 have lived rather peacefully in my tank for over a year. Did I make a mistake? Thanks! <<Well Scott, I'd rather see you "finish" your research "before" you make a purchase...but in this instance I think you will be fine. Sufflamen albicaudatus is considered a rather peaceful species...as triggers go...though I'm sure you are aware all fish are individual in their temperament and this is no "guarantee" all will be well. One thing I would like to state...you may want to consider removing some of your rock to give these fishes more room to roam about. You can look to ancillary filtration such as a fluidized-bed filter if you determine more bio-filtration is needed after removal of the rock>> Scott Mickle <<Regards, Eric Russell>>
Triggerfish/Compatibility 11/17/06 Hello James, It's me, Jarryd, <Jarryd, names should be capitalized.> again thank you for being so kind as to helping me with my queries! I totally agree with you in your last response, re triggers and small tanks. I have finally chosen a fish and am just waiting for your thoughts before I purchase one. A Half-moon triggerfish( Sufflamen chrysopterus). Am lead to believe that this type of trigger is one of the more mellow ones ( Bob Fenner: "The genus Sufflamen has <is> the mellowest Triggerfish species"). Can you second that? <I'm sure what Bob was getting at is that they are the least aggressive, but keep in mind, all triggerfish are aggressive, it's their nature.> I only want to keep maybe one or two other fishes. Perhaps a Saddled Toby (Canthigaster valentini)? <Wouldn't put this guy in there.> Anything else that pops into your head as a suitable tank mate? <Another trigger, eel.> Also what size can I expect one of these fish to attain, the trigger? Thank you so very very much for your time and advice, I can't express how helpful you have been! Have a nice day! <This triggerfish can attain a length of up to 10" in the aquarium. In time, it will require at least a 125 gallon tank. If this isn't in your plans, then I'd forget the triggerfish. I suggest you read the entire article on triggerfish that Bob wrote. See here. http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/fishes/triggers/index.htm. Also read triggerfish compatibility FAQ's on our site. James (Salty Dog)> Jarryd To Trigger or Not to Trigger 11/12/06 Hi, and thanks for the great website. <Welcome> I current have a 125 gallon saltwater tank that has been up and running for 6 months. Current residents are: 2 yellow tang (and they get along great), 2 clownies, 1 coral beauty, 1 Toby puffer, and 1 dog face puffer. My LFS recently obtained a vampire trigger (queen trigger?). <Balistes vetula?> I am in love with this fish. Will this be a good addition to the neighborhood? <Uh, no> I think I know the answer, but if I see it in writing will abide by your answer. Thanks for the great info. <Please read here: http://wetwebmedia.com/marine/fishes/triggers/balistes/index.htm and the linked files above. Bob Fenner> Questions regarding trigger compatibility 10/26/06 Hi Guys, I have a 300 gallon fish only tank. At the moment, I have one 3 1/2" Huma Huma, and one 3 1/2" niger. I like the triggerfish species and would like to add at least one more trigger. I like the Pink tail, however I read on your site that they are prone to hide and I have personally seen them doing so in my local fish store. <Mmm, not so much in a system of this size... and the two extant individuals are not too large presently...> I would like to avoid fish that do this. Both of my triggers are very lively and almost never hide or disappear in the decorations that I put in the tank. I would like hardy triggers as well. Which triggers do you guys recommend? <Rhinecanthus species are my faves> Or what other type of hardy fish do you guys recommend? <Heeeeeee! Posted on WWM> Also, how would an imperator angel do with the triggers that I have now? Thanks. <Would go if not started too small. Bob Fenner> Andrew Incompatible and Overstocked -- 09/25/06 Hi WWMC, <<Hello>> I have 180 gallon tank with a Picasso Trigger (3"), Clown Trigger (3"), Emperor Angelfish (5"), Maroon Clownfish - King of the tank (2.5"), and a Dogface Puffer (5"). Can I have a Black Dogface? He's 6 inches. The tank has over 100lbs of live rock (adequate number of hide outs.) Thanks! <<Not in my opinion...I think you're already overstocked with an incompatible mix of fishes (do take in to account adult size/temperament of these fishes). I recommend you remove the Clown Trigger...this will soon be 'King of the tank', and eventually, kill all others present. Regards, EricR>> Triggerfish comp. 9/9/06 Hello, I hope I have passed all of the guidelines that you suggest before asking a question. I have found a lot of great information on this site and it has really informed my ventures into the hobby. <Good> I am really interested in Triggerfish. As a relative newbie, it seems like the Niger Triggerfish is the best suited for a "community" tank without inverts. Yet, whenever I look at Compatibility charts, it always seems like Triggers are listed as either "Don't keep with other fish" or "Keep with other fish with caution." <Generally good advice... and are individualistic to boot> I'd like to have more fish in the tank than just one Trigger. Do you have any suggestions as to what fish might be most compatible with a Niger Trigger and/or any suggestions as to stocking order? <Mmm, are posted, though not organized as such perhaps... Please read here: http://wetwebmedia.com/triggercompfaqs.htm and the linked file above in this series> Thank you, Bob <Welcome. Bob Fenner> Triggers, Anemones, Clowns? Not tog. 9/6/06 One other question. I did not find it on your site, but may not be looking hard enough. What is compatibility with Pink tail trigger 3", Humu (Picasso) 2.5" and 2.5" niger and an anemone? <... usually zip> If I am having a chemical war I would like to move my anemone and 2 Percs to my other tank which is a fish only. <The Clowns likewise would likely be consumed in time here> Right now my Percs keep laying eggs and would like to see them continue but seem to have a very happy life in my 72 bow front. I do not want to send them to the fish tank in the sky by moving them to my fish only tank <Me neither... perhaps another tank, or two? Bob Fenner> Queen Trigger, Trigger In/Comp. 8/8/06 Hello all, I'm interested to know your thoughts on the following scenarios. If it's not too much of a problem). My mum said that I would be able to get a 180 gallon tank, and I plan to set it up with triggers. Would it be possible to house a queen trigger and an undulated trigger together in this size tank? <Possibly... but not likely... the Queen will be after the other, likely all other fish livestock...> Do these two fish grow at the same rate, and do they get to the same size as adults? <Good question... and no. The Queen grows much more quickly, gets much larger> I currently have the undulated in a 55gallon (he's about 3 inches) and want to move him to a bigger home, I haven't bought the queen yet. I have fallen in love with the queen triggers, they are beautiful. <I would not try a Balistes vetula with this fish> If you don't think it's big enough what size tank would be suitable? <Bedroom size... really. This TWA species has a large "territory"> They would be the only two inhabitants. If not these two triggers then what two do you suggest I might have more luck with in this size environment?? <Perhaps a Rhinecanthus species> I am open to any and all your suggestions, you guys truly are a great team to ask advice of!! Thanks for your time, Jarryd <Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/fishes/triggers/index.htm and the linked files above. Bob Fenner> Trigger Compatibility/Aggression - 08/08/06 Hi, <<Hello>> I have been reading on your site about triggers, I know they can be quite aggressive but like you answered one of your emailers, they can vary in personality. <<Indeed...as can/do all fishes...animals>> My question is there any chance of a clown and a Picasso, if bought young enough and small enough and being introduced into a 200G tank at the exact same time, getting along, or am I just wasting my money? <<Is possible...for a time. But you need to be aware that Balistoides conspicillum is notorious for turning on and killing all tankmates at some point as they mature. A behavior no doubt compounded by the unnatural confines of an aquarium>> I have successfully had a red tooth, queen and a Picasso together with no worries. <<The Clown Trigger is a different beast>> Previously I had these triggers in a bare tank, I plan on having coral in the new tank will they nip at the corals? <<Most assuredly they will, if not just outright consume them...best to limit tank decor to some live rock>> Thanks for the help, great site. Regards, Adam <<Happy to assist. EricR>> Dead Huma Huma trigger... mis-placed 7/20/06 Hi. I was emailing you to see if you knew of a disease a Huma recently had. I bought the Huma and put in a 70 gal tank with a Niger and Undulated trigger. <Oh yes... know already... a social disease... psychological stress from mis-stocking, crowding> Other than normal checking each other out at entry the fish were ok with each other. <Uh, no> The fish ate the first day in the tank. The second day I found the fish with his head pointed at the top of the tank near the surface. <A submissive posture... "trying to get out..."> The Huma did not eat and kept staying around the surface all day. I noticed on his body color loss. The color loss started behind his trigger fin and ran like a straight line down one side of his body. It was like his body has divided in half with half looking normal and the other half looking muted with color loss. The line ran from top to bottom. The fish died within 6 hours after I noticed the line down his body. I noticed after I moved him to a sick tank the other side had started to do the same thing. I have not seen anything like this before and wanted to know what it was? Can my other triggers get this from the one I lost? The fish had been at the fish store for over a month in a tank with another trigger and a lion fish before I bought him. Thanks for you help, Chad <... These Balistids can't be housed together... not compatible behaviorally... Bob Fenner> Blue cheeked Trigger Fish in a Reef
Tank? 6/5/06 Hello Crew, <<Hello Bob>> I'd just like to get your
opinion of Blue Cheeked Trigger fish, (Xanthichthys auromarginatus ), in reef
tanks. <<Absolutely worthwhile...if you have the space>> I have heard much
recently of the suitability of these fish to reef set ups due to their
planktonic diet, but they are trigger fish after all and those shrimps look so
tasty! <<Ha!...indeed. There's always the possibility of trouble, but I've kept
this species in my reef for more than a year now without incident (I have shrimp
and snails but no hermits), and would heartily recommend you give them a try. I
think the biggest danger would be if you tried to introduce more shrimp after
the trigger is in the tank...would have to be introduced very carefully, not
just "dropped" in to the tank>> My set up is 340 litre. <<Mmm, marginal...should
be "OK" for a time, but would like to see it in a larger system for the long
term>> Stock includes leather and mushroom corals. 1 cleaner shrimp (Lysmata
amboinensis). Red- and blue-legged hermits. Turbo snails. Fish list; 2 x
Amphiprion ocellaris 1 x Ecsenius midas 2 x Pomacentrus alleni 1 x Neocirrhites
armatus 1 x Centropyge bicolor 1 x Pseudocheilinus hexataenia 1 x Gramma loreto
1 x Ctenochaetus strigosus Thank you for your time and expertise! Bob Mehen <<A
pleasure to assist, Eric Russell>> Stocking...Tank Busters and War Mongers 7/4/06 Dear Bob , <Actually Adam J. with you this...umm...I guess its morning now...happy 4th!> I just recently purchased a 210 gallon tank and was wondering if I could house a white edged lyretail grouper for its lifespan in it? <No...too big.> the fellow tankmates would include 3 triggers (assasi, blue throat,& Sargassum) <Umm...that is not a good idea to mix these species of trigger...even in the short term.> a freckled hawk, a burrowing puffer, and an (angel or a tang /any recommendations?) and possibly a goatfish. Would this work? <Depends on exact species, but I can tell you right now your current plans will now work...do keep reading, Adam J.> Niger Trigger And Clam Compatibility...Clam Chowder In The Works 6/28/06 Hi, <Hello Jason> I enjoy learning on your site, and after looking through the FAQ's on Niger Triggers, I have not found an answer to this one. I would really like the opportunity to keep a Niger Trigger in my 125 gallon reef. I mostly keep soft corals and LPS with a few SPS thrown in...(gently glued in). From what I have read, this fish can get quite big, be aggressive to other fish and is a planktivore. <No such..., triggerfish are carnivores.> (Sorry for my spelling as English is not my mother tongue). <The spell checker works great for this.> As I accept these facts and can later accommodate a larger fish, I am left with one question. What would it do to my Crocea and Squamosa clams? <Make Clam Chowder. Clams are on their menu in nature.> Thanks for your time. <You're welcome. James (Salty Dog) Injured Goby 6/21/06 Hay love your site. <Thanks> I have a problem. The last inch off my EG's tail was bitten off by my niger trigger. <That is definitely a problem. The fish need to be separated and the goby will need to be closely monitored for secondary infections. Without more information it's impossible to give more advice.> <Chris> Triggerfish/Compatibility 6/21/06 I've read your plentiful articles and would like to reward you in clicking links for advertisers or something. What would you like? <Donations gladly accepted.> You have provided such a VAST amount of knowledge to me as an intermediate aquarium owner and I very much appreciate it. <You're welcome.> I started with a reef aquarium and after a massive disease/fungal wipeout I've decided to go with a fish only tank. I have a 100gallon tank and am ending up with 3 triggers, (niger, humu, bursa) all small.. they will arrive in a few days is there anything I should expect besides a massive war ? <If they are small, they may co-exist with each other, especially since you are providing a large tank for them. All triggers have an aggressive nature, and, I think it is a little late to be asking now. James (Salty Dog)> Trigger
Compatibility...Morays and Fishes - 06/05/06 Bob, <<EricR
here today>> Tremendous site. Thank you for the
service you provide the fish-keeping hobby. <<Bob, all of us, are
pleased you feel this way>> I am blessed to have three large
saltwater aquariums. <<Indeed!>> One is a 125g in which I
currently have a Niger trigger and a Humu Humu trigger, both about
3-4". Also in the tank are 5 yellow-tail damsels.
<<I see>> What say you to adding a baby clown to the mix
(after evacuating the 5 damsels) and then keeping those three
triggers--and nothing else--in the 125g from here on out? (I
also have plenty of live rock and a large cave in the tank.) <<I
think if you do this you will eventually have only the Clown
trigger. Balistoides conspicillum is a brute of a fish, even
where triggers are concerned. Juveniles can often be mixed
with other fish (I even saw one in a reef tank...though I strongly
recommend against this), but as the fish matures its tolerance for
tankmates becomes less and less. Clown triggers are known
for killing "everyone" in the tank without warning>>
Another tank is a monster 240g. Right now there are just
three damsel fish in it to cycle the system. <<Ugh...don't
care for this method...not necessary in my opinion>> I'd like
to put a Zebra moray eel in there as I understand they will not try to
eat other fish but instead prefer to be fed shrimp, crab et al.
<<Yes>> If I do put the Zebra moray eel in there...can I
add large schools of peaceful fish--like Chromis and pajama
cardinals--without being overly concerned about the little guys
becoming lunch for the Zebra moray? <<Might be possible, though
I'd want to keep the moray well fed just the same>> Also, in
a 240g...are there larger peaceful fish that can be kept in schools?
<<Hmmm..."large" and "schools" isn't
usually synonymous with "home aquarium" <grin> >>
If so, which fish (and in what number?) would you recommend?
<<One of the larger Anthias species might be what you're
looking for. My vote goes to Pseudanthias squamipinnis, the
Lyretail Anthias. These are durable and handsome fish that
can grow to about 5" in the home aquarium. A harem of a
male and 4 females would be possible in your tank...more if you decide
to exclude some of the other fish>> All the best from the desert
Southwest, Adam <<And to you in kind from the steamy
Southeast. EricR>> Blue cheeked Trigger Fish in a Reef Tank? 6/5/06 Hello Crew, <<Hello Bob>> I'd just like to get your opinion of Blue Cheeked Trigger fish, (Xanthichthys auromarginatus ), in reef tanks. <<Absolutely worthwhile...if you have the space>> I have heard much recently of the suitability of these fish to reef set ups due to their planktonic diet, but they are trigger fish after all and those shrimps look so tasty! <<Ha!...indeed. There's always the possibility of trouble, but I've kept this species in my reef for more than a year now without incident (I have shrimp and snails but no hermits), and would heartily recommend you give them a try. I think the biggest danger would be if you tried to introduce more shrimp after the trigger is in the tank...would have to be introduced very carefully, not just "dropped" in to the tank>> My set up is 340 litre. <<Mmm, marginal...should be "OK" for a time, but would like to see it in a larger system for the long term>> Stock includes leather and mushroom corals. 1 cleaner shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis). Red- and blue-legged hermits. Turbo snails. Fish list; 2 x Amphiprion ocellaris 1 x Ecsenius midas 2 x Pomacentrus alleni 1 x Neocirrhites armatus 1 x Centropyge bicolor 1 x Pseudocheilinus hexataenia 1 x Gramma loreto 1 x Ctenochaetus strigosus Thank you for your time and expertise! Bob Mehen <<A pleasure to assist, Eric Russell>> Blue Throat Triggers in a Reef? - 04/19/06 Hi Bob-
<<EricR here today...Hello!>> We have a 260 gallon reef
tank with: 2 purple fire fish 2 fire fish A mated pair of tomato clowns
(with eggs now) living in a hosting anemone (and two other bubble tips)
A psychedelic mandarin A coral beauty A yellow tang A hippo tang A
young (perhaps 3') Naso tang Three cleaner shrimp 2 fire cleaner
shrimp Lots of hermits Two emerald crabs Corals (and a small, but
beautiful, Crocea clam) We are considering some other fish but after
spending days fishing the damsels out of the tank'¦'¦ we are determined to keep a peaceful tank now
that the fire fish actually come out to swim and eat. <<Mmm,
yes...these "sweet tempered" little fish (towards
non-conspecifics anyway) usually suffer terribly in a tank with bullies
such as the damsels>> We would love to get a male and female blue
throat triggerfish. I have read many of your comments on
them and it seems that you like these fish. <<Indeed...as do
I. I have a male Blue Throat in my 375g reef
tank. I had a pair to begin with, but sadly the female was
stricken by internal parasites some months after I acquired her and
stopped feeding...but the male has been doing great for about a year
now>> Do you think that they would be a good (and fairly
non-aggressive) addition to our tank? <<They are boisterous and
aggressive feeders which can intimidate some fishes, but otherwise have
proven quite peaceful in my experience>> We have read that they
can bother 'ornamental shrimp', do you think they would hurt
the cleaner shrimps? I hope not! <<Mine doesn't
bother shrimp or snail>> They are the friendliest creatures in
the tank-they always eat right out of our hands. What about
the clam? <<I have three T. crocea that have never been a problem
where the trigger is concerned>> We are open to other suggestions
in addition to the trigger too. Do you think another type of
tang would be a good idea? Perhaps a Kole? <<I think
you might be "full up" on tangs>> We are also thinking
of adding a few royal Gramma for color and action (since they hide less
than the fire fish). <<Should be fine...though I'm not sure
two will peacefully cohabitate, even in your large tank>> We look
forward to your advice as always. <<If you decide to get a
"pair" of Blue Throats, may I suggest you try to acquire
specimens from Hawaii as they will be in better condition due to proper
handling and shorter transit time. Also...make sure you
order/receive the male and female at the same time...have them
quarantined together...and introduce them to your tank together when
the time comes>> Thanks a million! Pam and Rob <<Is a
pleasure to assist. Regards EricR>> Trigger Fish Compatibility - 04/02/06 Hello, <Hi Dave> I was wondering if it would be possible to keep a Sargassum Triggerfish or a Pinktail Trigger in a 135 gallon tank? I have a juv. Chrysurus angelfish, a powder blue tang, a sailfin tang, a coral beauty angelfish, 2 Perc clowns, some Chromis, and a blue fairy wrasse, and a lineatus wrasse. <These fish are aggressive and wouldn't fit it with the crew you have. Like having a motorcycle gang visit a family dinner.> <<Great! And this tank is too crowded... RMF>> Thanks for all of your help. <You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)> Dave Trigger System/Choices - 02/23/06 Good Morning all- <<Evening here now-Howdy!>> I'm getting ready to start my first Saltwater aquarium. <<Ahh...challenges, wonders ahead...>> In the past 2 years I've bought over $400.00 worth of books, have quite a few Saltwater magazine subscriptions, and have spent countless hours cruising the web, (mostly on your site BTW), to do my research so I will get it right. <<Kudos to you my friend.>> I have had my 90 gallon tank set-up for over 10 years and have enjoyed the hours spent watching my African Cichlids, and all the little ones they have blessed me with, but it is time to move on. I am intrigued by the Triggers and although most of the research I've done has been in the reef set-up area, I keep going back to Triggers. <<Indeed...fascinating and intelligent fishes.>> My thoughts are in wanting to set up a Trigger tank, which begs the question, can I keep these guys together, <<Some of them.>> and how big of an aquarium will I need, <<A couple to several hundred gallons.>> and who gets to stay, or go--? <<Mmm, choices/decisions to be made.>> The list of potential candidates; A Niger, a Picasso, a Bluechin, and lastly a Clown. I've read the Bluechin is the "most peaceful" of the bunch, and is NOT a must have, but I'm striving for 'color selection'. <<I "highly" recommend this fish over the Clown trigger. The Bluechin (or Blue Throat) is a hardy (ask for a Hawaiian specimen) and attractive fish that will "fit" much better with your other choices in the long term. While truly a beautiful and amazing fish, the Clown trigger is best kept in a system by itself unless of a size not normally within the capabilities of most hobbyists.>> (Maintenance is not an issue or a chore to me, as I clean the filter pad in my wet/dry every other day on my 90, and do 30% water changes bi-weekly. <<Excellent!>> This system is set-up using a sump, with an 1100 gph return through a spray bar located 2" above the sand behind the stacked rocked, a closed loop with a Mag 9.5, an Emperor 400, and a 350 deluxe with a micron filter. A Nautilus TE skimmer, and a 9 watt UV sterilizer.) In closing, I would like to thank you in advance for your time, and I'd also like to say this is THE best site I have been lucky enough to find. <<I/we look forward to future correspondence.>> Bill Fletcher <<Regards, EricR>> Wrasses & Triggers II - 03/07/06 Thanks, <<Welcome>> Your advice is very helpful. <<I always hope so...>> Although not what I would like to hear but it works. <<Mmm, a common response...were it but that we could keep everything that strikes our fancy...mine included <grin>.>> What determines the size factor of the tank? I've always been curious? How can someone determine the amount of fish and correct size of the tank themselves then asking for your or local pet store. <<No magic formulas my friend. Every addition needs to/has to be evaluated on its own merit (adult size/temperament, feeding habits, social behaviors, natural environment, natural range, physiology, psychology, suitable tank mates, etc., etc.).>> I know that with fresh water it's roughly 1gal per inch of fish or at least that's what I was told, so a 100 gal tank could house about 100 inches of fish. <<Um...no...same hold true here as well...each fish/species must be evaluated as explained.>> I always thought that you should cut a marine tank in half. Is there a different way of looking at that? <<As I stated...but never said it was easy. Regards, EricR>> Triggerfish and Corallimorphs tog.? 2/14/06 I was wondering if I should take a chance of having a mushroom colony with a Picasso Triggerfish? I know that triggerfish are known to bother corals somewhat but I just want to know my chances of keeping both. (btw I don't have the mushrooms or the triggerfish yet) <Mmm, I give you about 50:50 odds that they'll co-exist... but no telling when the Rhinecanthus might munch the Shrooms. Bob Fenner> Trigger + Another Trigger + More Fish = WWIII 12/24/05 Hi Matt speaking, I'm 14, <Hi Matt, Adam J here with you.> I know a lot about fish I also am very lucky with them too. <Cool.> I currently have a 28 bow tank with 4 convict damsels and 2 clown fish (perculas) they do fine for 1 and a half years now. I also a 55 gallon tank for the past 4 years with many fish. Right now it has about 50 pounds of live rock. In it is a 5" Naso Tang, two 2" mono's, a 4" Foxface and one Koran Angel extremely small about 2". They all do fine for the past year. <Well it's time to find the Naso a new home ASAP, as for the other fish they will need new homes within the next year as well 'you've picked out some serious tank busters there.> About 2 months ago I got a 150 gallon tank for a birthday gift I let it cycle threw these past 2 months. It's 72x18x30. I'm wondering if these fish will do in the 150, 4"-5" Imperator Angel, 3"-4" Blue line grouper, 3"-4" Banana Wrasse and 2 triggers. <I wouldn't mix triggers and triggers, heck I would avoid mixing triggers with anything else if possible. They can be downright nasty. While there is still no guarantee; I would try either the blue throat trigger or niger trigger, they tend to be a bit more timid than some of their cousins.> I love triggers their my favorite species of marine fish. <I love 'em too, they just don't play nice with others.> One time I had a Clown triggerfish and Niger in a 36 gallon tank for 2 years no problems but than we gave it to the LPS because we got the 55 instead. <There is not other word to describe the above arrangement other than luck really, and I'm willing to bet that there would be problems once the fish matured not to mention the tank size they were in.> Their are 3 triggers I want; these are between the Clown, Humu-Humu (Picasso), or the Rectangular Trigger, but I only want two and that's how much is the maximum for the 150. <With that arrangement you will end up with only one trigger 'after one has killed the other two.> I've heard many stories between them. I heard clowns don't get along with other triggers, <'¦.Or other fish in general.> but in many tanks I seem them with Humas. So I'm guessing its all luck really want the Clown and Rectangular. they are both going in at the same time both 2"-3". But if they don't get along which I doubt because they will be put in the same time. <Simultaneous addition increases your chances somewhat of keeping such animals, but it is not a guarantee. Clown Triggers are just downright nasty fish at times. I took care of a 6000 gallon tank with a large (24') adult clown and try as we might, could not add another trigger to the tank.> If they want be good do you think I can put the Humu and Rectangular together or Clown and Humu? <Personally in this tank size I would not mix triggers.> This is the Order I would like to put the fish in 1st I'm gonna put in the Imperator and Banana then later on maybe a month or too later the blue Line grouper then both triggers another month later. Do you think that will be fine. <No I think you would be overstocking there, and possibly adding the fish to quickly. The tank needs to be AT LEAST 6 months old before adding an angel. I think if you drop one or two of those from your list (preferably the one trigger) you could be okay. Keep in mind however that years down the line you may end up having a tank with one trigger; depending on the individual specimen.> Also do you think their are any other fish (aggressive) that will do possibly OK. But it might get a little packed in their <Will be very packed in their eventually.> but they are very small so I think for a couple months I could put other fish in. Do you think 1 Maroon gold striped Clown (2"-3") or 2 perculas true (2"-3") <A large maroon female may be able to hold it's own in this tank against everyone, excluding the trigger. The perculas are far to timid.> if you have any suggestions or comments like you might not think will go or something please tell me. <Triggers are interesting creatures some play nice but generally speaking all have the potential to be terrors. I would be very cautious when keeping any type of trigger with any other fish and I would avoid mixing triggers with other triggers all together. As for removing fish as they grow larger; what would you do with these fish after a 'couple' of months? As a responsible aquarist you should address and plan for this now not later. You have more research to do my friend, please read through WWM. Good luck, Adam J.> Compatibility of anemone and clownfish with Humu Humu trigger Hi! I love your site and all your extremely informative Q&A -- what a remarkable resource! Thank you for what you do! <Much appreciated> Here's my question: I have a very friendly <There are no friendly triggers> and relatively docile humu (about 4 inches) humu living very happily with a convict damsel in a 40 gallon FOWLR system. <Much too small a tank.> The two don't seem to bother each other at all and have been very peaceable roommates for over two years. I would like to add a clownfish (percula, likely, although possibly a Clark) along with an anemone. In fact, I just bought a pink anemone today at the LFS largely since the man at the store didn't seem to think there would be any incompatibility problem. I thought I would give the anemone a chance to make itself at home before introducing the clownfish. After now searching the issue of compatibility between the humu humu and the anemone I am now suddenly alarmed at the thought that the humu humu might nibble at and ultimately kill the anemone. (I know, I should have figured this out in advance of buying the thing.) Is it highly likely that the humu humu will munch on the anemone or simply a somewhat possible eventuality? Is the little convict damsel likely to succumb to the anemone's tentacles? Should I take the anemone back to the store tomorrow and forget the idea of giving the clownfish an anemone home? <Bad idea all together, take the anemone back. Triggerfish should never be trusted with inverts.> Also, would the humu humu be likely to harass the new clownfish? <Yes> Does it depend very much on the relative size of the clown? <No> (the Clark would be about 3 inches and the percula would be a little guy - perhaps 1.5-2 inches). Separately, what do you think of the idea of introducing a lunare wrasse into this environment? Would the wrasse be likely to upset the happy relationship between the humu humu and the convict? <As the trigger grows your tank will not be able to support any more fish. Your trigger can attain a length of up to 10 inches and they do grow quite fast. A 70 gallon tank would be the minimum size for this trigger.> Thank you in advance for you advice. <You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)> Humu humu Compatibility - 12/17/2005 Hi, <Hello, Josh here.> I've never posted a question before so I don't know if I'm supposed to send you an email like this or simply follow the link your site. So, I apologize if you receive this twice.... <I only see this one, so, unless Bob got one...> Hi! <Uh.. Hi there! Josh here today.> I love your site and all your extremely informative Q&A -- what a remarkable resource! Thank you for what you do! <Actually thank you! We couldn't do it without all the participation!> Here's my question: I have a very friendly and relatively docile Humuhumu (about 4 inches) living very happily with a convict damsel in a 40 gallon FOWLR system. The two don't seem to bother each other at all and have been very peaceable roommates for over two years. <As with any Triggerfish, this can change. The fact that it's tank is too small increases the chances.> I would like to add a clownfish (percula, likely, although possibly a Clark) along with an anemone. <If you're trying to pair them up, make sure you do the adequate research. There are many mixes that don't work, others that work only sometimes.> In fact, I just bought a pink anemone today at the LFS largely since the man at the store didn't seem to think there would be any incompatibility problem. <YAY! Did you research any on this type before your purchase? How about the best route to success for a Clown host?> I thought I would give the anemone a chance to make itself at home before introducing the clownfish. <Should also make sure you can make it at home. Give a bit of time here, and learn all you can on its care. Anemones aren't easy and should not be taken lightly.> After now searching the issue of compatibility between the humu humu and the anemone I am now suddenly alarmed at the thought that the Humu humu might nibble at and ultimately kill the anemone. <Better late then never (sort of). There is a chance it may happen. No way to know that it won't happen later either.> (I know, I should have figured this out in advance of buying the thing.) <Better luck next time.> Is it highly likely that the Humuhumu will munch on the anemone or simply a somewhat possible eventuality? <I'd say it's highly likely a chance he'll try it. Whether he likes it or not...> Is the little convict damsel likely to succumb to the anemone's tentacles? <Is this a Dascyllus (striped)? Probably not. Smart and quick.> Should I take the anemone back to the store tomorrow and forget the idea of giving the Clownfish an anemone home? <That's what I would advise.> Also, would the Humu humu be likely to harass the new clownfish? <Probably, at least upon introduction. The Damsel would as well.> Does it depend very much on the relative size of the clown? (the Clark would be about 3 inches and the percula would be a little guy - perhaps 1.5-2 inches). <The closer sized to the Trigger the better.> Separately, what do you think of the idea of introducing a lunare wrasse into this environment? Would the wrasse be likely to upset the happy relationship between the Humu humu and the convict? <Any introduction is going to cause some "activity". Introduction to an undersized tank will likely cause negative activity.> Thank you in advance for you advice. <No problem. I would abandon the anemone idea and plan a tank upgrade, too small for the Picasso. - Josh> Trigger Compatibility - 12/13/2005 Hi, great site! <Thanks Chris!> I've looked through your site back and forth and really did not find the answer to my question. I recently purchased a 110 gallon tank, 48 inches long. I have a large wet dry filter, and Aqua-C 180 protein skimmer, plus an old SeaClone Skimmer, 60 pounds of liverock and 50 pounds of live sand. My question concerns the Picasso Triggerfish and its compatibility with the Zebra Moray and Volitans Lionfish . Is the Picasso Triggerfish compatible with the moray, Volitans Lionfish and possibly a puffer as well? <Well, this Triggerfish is of the more peaceful but there is still a risk that it will harass the Zebra Moray as well as the Volitans. There would also be significant risk of throwing a Pufferfish into this tank for the same reasons.> Not that big of a deal if it is not. If not, what other tank mates are compatible? <Is this a proposed stocking list or are you looking to add "just one more" to existing tankmates? Visit/revisit the Compatibility FAQs on these animals. I would prefer a bit more room for just these two. If you must make an addition (again, advised against) nothing smaller than the mouths of these for sure. Larger, docile, more indifferent than inquisitive tankmates are all that need apply. Keep in mind the effects of additions on filtration.> I know the Picasso Triggerfish are really intelligent, one of the reasons I like them. Thanks, Chris <Quite welcome. - Josh> Compatibility Question From an "Old-timer" 12/1/05 Dear WWM crew, Greetings! I've got a compatibility question for you. In my 16 years of marine fishkeeping, I've never tried keeping triggerfish (except a Niger), simply because of how mean they can get. At this point, however, my 150G FO seems to have become a pretty aggressive tank! Due to two recent losses (a wonderful honeycomb moray to the carpet, and a sailfin tang possibly to old age?), <<Could possibly live to a decade, maybe more. Marina>> I am down to five fish: an 8" Maculosus Angel, a 6" Queen Angel, a 8" Foxface, a 8" volitans lion, and a 4" dogface puffer. Most of those fish have been in the tank for 5+ years (the maculosus started out at less than an inch!). In fact, the lion was the most recent addition at almost three years! In trying to decide what to add, I've come up with several ideas and wanted to run them past you guys. First, I my LFS has a 4" clown trigger at a reasonable price. I've read the article on clown triggers, which says that they can get LARGE and MEAN, but I also read the FAQ and saw that other people are keeping their clown triggers with angels, tangs, and other semi-aggressive fish. What do you think the likelihood of adding a 4" clown trigger without serious incident (in either direction) would be? Second, I am ordering some fish from a diver in Hawaii, and was thinking of adding a large Green Bird Wrasse, a large Raccoon Butterfly, and a large Achilles Tang. Do you think they would be able to fend for themselves against the five I already have? How about with the trigger? I know predictions can be hard to make, as each fish is different, but what is your opinion? Thanks. Jim Jensen <Jim, with the size of your present fish, your tank is overloaded right now. I wouldn't add any more fish. But to answer your question, yes clown triggers do get large and can be mean. If the tank is large enough it helps quell aggression. James (Salty Dog)> <<Also, the lionfish specifically could become a target of this clown, some species of Triggerfishes are known to nip off the venomous spines. Marina>> Starfish/Urchins in an Aggressive Fish Only Tank 11/23/05 Apologies if you have already answered this but I couldn't find it on the FAQ section. I have a fish only tank with a Huma Trigger, Snowflake Moray and Lionfish. I have been looking for something to control algae but the trigger keeps biting chunks or any exposed pieces from any snails that I put in there (irrespective of size). Can you keep starfish or urchins in this type of tank? And if so, would anyone have nay recommendations? <The trigger will eat all inverts!! you better scrub the aquarium by hand!! IanB> Vacation and Lionfish and Trigger and the Bears, Oh My!
11/20/05 Crew, I hope everyone's doing well. <So far
so good.> My question relates to Thanksgiving vacation. Will a
lionfish and trigger survive 5 days without food in their new 120
gallon home? <I'm sure they would be fine. Wouldn't
want to go much longer than that.> From the FAQ's, I gather that
some Lionfish go on feeding strikes for weeks, so I assume that 5 days
without feeding and adult supervision should be ok. A few days after
picking up my lionfish (and maybe my Picasso trigger) -- which
are being quarantined at the LFS -- and conducting a FW dip with Quick
Cure, I go on a 4-5 day Thanksgiving vacation. Except for two damsels
that I've had for a few weeks, the Lionfish and Trigger will be the
first fish to be added to the tank. <You may be missing a
damsel or two when you return.> << <giggle> Ya
think? MH>> Tank has been cycling for a couple months.
Ammonia and nitrites are low, but nitrates are ~50ppm -- which is why
I'm waiting to add my snowflake eel. I think the high nitrate level
is due to the filter pads I had on the Wet/Dry tray. I've
removed them, I now I only have a Poly Filter in there.
<Filter pads are fine as long as they are changed/cleaned on a
weekly basis.> Will the fish be ok while I'm away, or am I
overly concerned about fish stress and lack of feeding (assuming the
lionfish doesn't try to eat the damsels)? <If they are in
good health when you leave, they should be OK.> Am I also
being overly concerned with the snowflake's reaction to a ~50 ppm
nitrate level? <I wouldn't add another fish until your
return where you can monitor it. Fifty ppm of nitrate is kind of high
but shouldn't cause any health problems for the eel. If you like
keeping the big eaters/big messer- uppers I suggest adding a good
protein skimmer.> Thanks in advance! <You're welcome.
James (Salty Dog)> <<The Lion may be gone as well...
RMF>>
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