Pinktail Triggerfish

Pinktail Triggerfish: The Semi-Aggressive Beauty

The Pinktail Triggerfish (Melichthys vidua), also commonly known as the Red-Tailed Triggerfish or Whitetailed Triggerfish, is one of the more docile and reef-compatible members of the triggerfish family. It is admired for its striking emerald-green to dark body, bright yellow accents, and its namesake pale pink to reddish-pink tail fin.

This species is an active, fast-swimming fish that can reach up to 16 inches in length. Due to its large adult size and need for swimming space, the Pinktail Triggerfish requires a minimum aquarium size of 125-180 gallons or more. Although often less destructive than other triggers, the tank must feature plenty of caves and securely placed rockwork, as it will still explore and attempt to move light décor.

Unlike many other triggers, this species is known to be **inquisitive and interactive**, often following its owner around the tank. It is an excellent choice for a large, mixed-species, FOWLR (Fish-Only With Live Rock) aquarium.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This trigger is an Omnivore/Carnivore that grazes primarily on algae, sponges, and small invertebrates in the wild. In the aquarium, it requires a varied diet of meaty frozen foods (mysis shrimp, squid, clam, krill) supplemented with marine algae or spirulina-based pellets.
• Teeth Care: It is essential to regularly provide hard-shelled, meaty foods (such as whole clams-in-shell or mussels) to naturally wear down its constantly growing beak and prevent overgrowth, which can hinder feeding.
• Reef Compatibility: The Melichthys genus is considered Reef Safe with Caution. While it is generally safe for large stony and soft corals, it will readily consume ornamental crustaceans (shrimp, crabs) and smaller snails.
• Temperament: It is Semi-Aggressive to aggressive. It is generally peaceful toward larger, fast-moving tankmates like Tangs, Angels, and large Wrasses, but may bully smaller or shy fish. It should be added as one of the last fish to the aquarium.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Melichthys vidua
• Primary Common Name: Pinktail Triggerfish
• Other Common Names: Red-Tailed Triggerfish, Whitetailed Triggerfish
• Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Max Size: 15-16 inches (38-40 cm)
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive (One of the most peaceful triggers)
• Diet: Omnivore/Carnivore (Must include hard-shelled food)
• Minimum Tank Size: 125-180+ Gallons
• Reef Compatibility: With Caution (Likely to eat ornamental shrimp and snails)