Triggerfish

Bold, Intelligent, and Unforgettable Marine Fish

Triggerfish are among the most striking and intelligent saltwater fish available to aquarists. Known for their bold personalities, unique swimming motion, and vivid color patterns, these fish make extraordinary showpieces in large marine aquariums.

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Members of the family Balistidae, Triggerfish are found throughout tropical coral reefs worldwide. Their name comes from the “trigger” spine on their dorsal fin, which locks into place for defense and allows them to wedge securely into rock crevices when resting or hiding.

At AquariumFish.com, we offer a select variety of Triggerfish for sale, including popular species like the Picasso Trigger, Clown Trigger, Blue Jaw Trigger, and Huma Huma Trigger. Each fish is hand-selected for color and health, acclimated to aquarium conditions, and shipped overnight for safe arrival.

Why Choose Triggerfish?

  • Vibrant, high-contrast coloration and strong personalities
  • Highly intelligent — often recognize their owners and feeding times
  • Durable, long-lived species suitable for large marine aquariums
  • Some species are reef-safe with caution and can coexist with select corals and tankmates

Care Tips for Triggerfish

  • Provide a tank 125 gallons or larger with sturdy rockwork and open swimming areas
  • Feed a protein-rich diet: shrimp, squid, clams, krill, and marine pellets
  • Maintain stable marine parameters (salinity 1.024–1.026, temperature 76–80°F)
  • Use strong filtration — Triggers are active feeders with hearty appetites

Popular Triggerfish Species We Offer

  • Picasso Trigger (Rhinecanthus aculeatus) – colorful and intelligent; a hardy aquarium favorite
  • Clown Trigger (Balistoides conspicillum) – bold patterns and commanding presence
  • Blue Jaw Trigger (Xanthichthys auromarginatus) – peaceful reef-compatible male with blue jaw markings
  • Huma Huma Trigger (Rhinecanthus rectangulus) – Hawaii’s state fish; hardy and striking
  • Niger Trigger (Odonus niger) – elegant purple-blue fish with flowing tail; reef-safe with caution

Triggerfish are curious, alert, and interactive — often among the first to greet you at the glass. While many species are best suited to fish-only tanks, some (like the Blue Jaw and Niger Trigger) can be kept in reef systems with care. Their intelligence and individuality make them unforgettable marine pets.


Triggerfish FAQs

Are Triggerfish reef-safe?
Some species, like the Blue Jaw Trigger and Niger Trigger, are considered reef-safe with caution. Most, however, are best suited for fish-only or FOWLR systems since they may eat small invertebrates.
Can Triggerfish live with other fish?
Yes — Triggerfish coexist well with other large, semi-aggressive species such as Groupers, Lions, Eels, and Puffers. Avoid small or timid tankmates that may be intimidated.
Do Triggerfish need special care?
They are hardy and adaptable but need plenty of swimming room, high water quality, and a secure lid — Triggerfish are known jumpers and strong enough to move light aquarium covers.

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