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FAQs about Triggerfish Compatibility 2
Related FAQs: Trigger Compatibility 1,
Triggerfishes in General, Triggerfish:
Identification,
Selection, Systems,
Behavior, Feeding,
Diseases,
Reproduction,
Balistapus,
Balistes,
Canthidermis, ,
Melichthys,
Odonus,
Pseudobalistes,
Rhinecanthus,
Sufflamen,
Xanthichthys Related Articles:
Triggerfish, Triggerfish Regional
Accounts,
Red Sea Triggerfishes,
Hawaiian Triggerfishes, Triggers
may "sample" sessile invertebrates from distraction to death.
Aplidium tabascum. Colonies reddish to
orange, opaque. Indo-West Pacific; Pic in N. Sulawesi by DianaF. | 
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Compatibility... Pinktail Triggerfish and smaller peaceful
fish 09/15/09
Hey Guys,
<Hey there, you got one of the gals tonight.>
thanks in advance for the info.
<Welcome.>
My question is about compatibility. I have a 120G with 100 pounds of
live rock and about a 7 inch sand bed.
<Ooo! Nice deep sand bed! I like!>
The livestock that I would like to place together is a pair of pearly
Jawfish, <Is one of my favorite fish! You could likely have more than a
pair if you so desire. I have seen 4-5 sharing the same burrow
successfully in
captivity, but I have not observed this in the wild.>
an orange spot goby, a six line wrasse,
<Good choices.>
and until he starts to get big (in which by then I will have another
tank) a Pinktail trigger,
<Mmm, this fish can grow to more than a foot long in it's normal
habitat, and may quickly out grow your tank particularly if your tank is
only 4 foot long. The Pinktail Triggerfish (Melichthys vidua) may not do
well with your smaller more peaceful fish and may eat your shrimp. Would
you consider a different trigger? The Bluechin Triggerfish (Xanthichthys
auromarginatus) may be a more suitable fish for your system. The
Bluechin does not get as big and would less likely to outgrow your 120
gallon tank.
This fish may also not do well with smaller more peaceful fish and may
also eat your shrimp, but I have seen more instances of success with
this triggerfish than the Pinktail. A word of caution, Bluechins have
been know to spit water like pufferfish commonly do, so make sure your
electrical cords and outlets are not on the receiving end of the spray.>
along with some shrimp, snails, and 2 emerald crabs.
Is this going to be a problem?
<All depends on the behaviors of the specific fish, just like people,
each fish is an individual, with it's own quirks and tendencies, some
fit the mold, some break them. So it is impossible to say if it will or
won't be a
problem.
Good luck with your setup.
Mich>
Humu Trigger & Clown Trigger
in 55 gallon systems. No Surprises: Trigger Compatibility\Behavior
8/4/2009
Hello Crew,
<Hi Meg.>
I will start by saying I am new to saltwater tanks and have read your
site till my eyeballs want to fall out. But it is so helpful. Thank you.
But anyway I have two questions to ask you.
<Fire away.>
1. I have a Humu Trigger about three to four inches long (I call him my
little devil)
<An appropriate name.>
He was my second fish....Initially he was in a 55 gallon with a striped
puffer, maroon striped clown, and two blue damsels.
<Ouch. Triggers need a much larger tank than this.
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/triggersysfaqs.htm >
All was well until I found him eating my clown and chasing puffer (those
two then decided they couldn't ever come out of hiding)...so enters
second 55 gallon.
<Still too small for a trigger, even if left alone.>
I put him in with a Diana hog wrasse, powder brown tang, and dwarf lion.
<This will not end well.>
All was well until ich hit....recovered but lost tang.
<Ahh... Quarantine, dips and baths will keep these pests out of your
system. http://www.wetwebmedia.com/dips_baths.htm >
I wanted to add more fish so I purchased another powder brown(couldn't
resist), Flame Angel(beautiful), and still had wrasse and one blue
damsel.
That was 1 month ago.
<I've already said it, but that is too many fish for a 55 gallon,
especially with a trigger that will grow to just over a foot in length.>
Flame and Tang timid at first but in the last week came around. Triggy(his
name) responded well....until today. I came out this afternoon to see
Triggy eating my flame angel..literally.
<Territoriality, hunger, or just being a trigger...>
Most of the face was gone and eyes. I was horrified!! So I sadly cleaned
that disaster. Well after feeding time this evening(I feed frozen krill)
<Hmm needs better food than just krill. Feeding krill all of the time is
the same and you or I eating nothing but popcorn. Http://www.wetwebmedia.com/trigfdgfaqs.htm >
he then ate my blue damsel....they have lived together since Triggy was
less than half the size..day one.
<Not surprising, unfortunately.
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/triggercompfaqs.htm>
To my disbelief my "little devil" was now the enemy. He was very
animated, ate out of my hand, and loved to play with small shells and
search all areas of the tank. What would have made him eat everyone and
can I do anything?
<A few things actually.>
I have taken him out and left wrasse and tang in the tank. I just don't
know what to do. I don't want to lose him but can't afford to have him
wipeout entire tanks!
<You have a couple of choices, Clearly, this is a belligerent trigger.
You can purchase him a much larger tank for him, add a few tougher fish
first, and he will probably make a great 'pet' fish, or you can find him
a new home.>
Okay now second problem. In another 55 Gallon tank with a 6 inch clown
trigger, 7 inch dog face puffer, and a domino about 3 inches, and
striped damsel 2 inches.
<Terrible mix of fish for a 55 gallon tank, and dangerously overstocked.
Do realize that Clown will get up to 16 inches long, and generally have
a nasty disposition.>
This is my boyfriends tank. Everything is good. Water quality, eating,
etc.
For the last two months clown has been laying at the bottom of the tank
not doing too much. He will make himself pale when he does this,
and(prob sounds crazy) looks sad, breathing is fine.
<Likely a result of the overcrowding.>
Everyone else in tank is just fine. He still gets excited about eating
and such. But just seems to lay around all day now. Now I have read
numerous times on here that they can just be pulling your leg but is two
months of this normal?
<No, the fish is stressed.>
He is such a beautiful fish we really don't want to lose him and he
seems healthy as can be....I check them all over everyday since I am at
home.
Sorry to repeat a question...it just seems a little long for this
"episode". I appreciate your time and any feedback would be wonderful.
<You really need to reexamine how you are stocking these tanks. a 55
gallon will not work with these fish. I personally would not keep a
trigger in a tank smaller than a 125 gallon, with a 180 or better
preferred - these fish get big and mean.>
Thanks to your site I'm not always running to fish stores(some of which
are not knowledgeable) Keep up the good work. I am sure I am only one of
many who enjoy such an educational site! :) (didn't realize it would get
this long winded! Sorry!)
<No worries.>
Sincerely,
Meg
<MikeV>
Trigger Compatibility 5/31/09
Hi guys, great site! In regards to trigger fish compatibility, my
questions has been asked many a time. However, the answers I find don't
really
specify tank size and set-up. I will be starting a new predator FOWLR
system with a 3" sump with refugium and a larger-than-required skimmer.
It
will be a 150 gallon tank and I plan on having large amounts of LR with
lots of hiding places. My million dollar questions are: Can I keep a
Clown
trigger with a Volitans lionfish?
<No. Balistoides conspicillum is, to be honest, a one fish, one tank
kind of beastie. It will nibble, bite or kill just about anything.>
Can I also add in a Picasso?
<Possibly. I've certainly kept Pterois volitans and Rhinecanthus
rectangulus in a 200 Imperial gallon system (240 US gallons) without
problems. But don't forget many of these triggers patrol areas the size
of football fields, so 150 US gallons is nothing to them, and if your
Rhinecanthus aculeatus decides it doesn't like the Pterois, you're going
to have problems. I wouldn't risk it, to be honest. There are milder
Triggers
I'd recommend before Rhinecanthus species, such as Melichthys spp, for
mixed species aquaria. So if you were smart, you'd choose one of those
species rather than Rhinecanthus.>
The other two fish I intend to keep are a Harlequin wrasse and a Naso
tang.
<This is a LOT of fish for 150 US gallons. Choerodon fasciatus gets to
about 30 cm in the wild, though that is exceptional in captivity; Naso
lituratus to 40 cm, though again, usually quite a bit smaller in
captivity. I'd review your stocking, filtration very carefully before
progressing. The
Triggerfish would definitely be the "wild card" of the bunch, so I'd
choose the species you keep very carefully.>
I only intend to have 4-5 fish. As you can appreciate, I'm getting all
sorts of responses from both the internet and LFS. Thanks and keep up
the
good work!
<Hope this helps, Neale.>
Lonely clown? Lonely Trigger? Trigger pairings? 5/6/09
Bob (and/or crew):
<Aleasha>
Two clown situations/questions. (I hope you do not think me a clown for
asking):
<Not a'tall>
1. In one tank, as you know (Bob), a leopard grouper (I could not catch
as of yet), recently killed a black clown (after several months of
harmony) that had bonded with and groomed a docile and shy Niger
trigger. (I know, my fault.)
<Mmm, there's always draining the tank down and removing rock et al...
not that big a deal really... to facilitate removing livestock>
2. In another tank, one of my pair of bonded orange false percula clowns
has, after much time, taken up residence in a xenia. The other clown is
left out "in the cold".
<Common>
Without the risk of anthropomorphizing too much, the questions are:
a. Will the Trigger "miss" the black clown and what do I do about it? I
am afraid another clown may not bond or be fearful (or be lunch). I am
removing the grouper when swapping/breaking down tanks in
the next few days.
<Won't "miss" it... are rather "autistic" re such memories>
b. Will the stranded (orange) clown (in the other tank) - the one no
longer allowed to be around the "xenia hog" former partner, suffer ill
effects?
<Mmm, not if there's sufficient room otherwise. Such "third parties"
(sometimes fourth...) occur in the wild as well... Some folks employ
"extras" as "whipping boys" to inspire breeding et al. behavior>
The orange clowns were bonded for 3 years before the other left for the
xenia patch. Shall I get another clown for the lonely one - and, if so,
of which sex (opposite or same)?
<Mmm, I would not... unless there is PLENTY of room... like an uncrowded
50 gallons per pair>
Maybe I'm silly - but with the recent articles on exactly how even lowly
invertebrates feel things (well physical sensations, like pain anyway) -
am I to assume that higher species can have "emotional"
reactions?
<More of this is "reading in", anthropomorphising... than real>
(As an aside, my friend - a no nonsense Ph.D. - tells me that, many
years ago, his wife once donned an ugly mask, hid behind a door (and
near the aquarium) to scare him - her husband, near Halloween time.
As she hid masked by the aquarium (but before jumping out at him), a
normally friendly (almost dog-like) (freshwater) fish darted across the
aquarium and hid his head in the sand - not to come out until after a
day later when he was gently pulled from the rubble by the husband after
the fright. This behavior had not been exhibited before, nor any hiding
behavior.
<I believe it>
So . . . one wonders how much lesser creatures know and feel!
<Some fishes... e.g. larger puffers, are quite "intelligent"... capable
of acquiring/retaining working knowledge, bridging bits...>
Any clown advice relative to the lonely clown and lonely trigger?
<Don't worry re the trigger or clown>
Also, after much research, and affirmative assertions via internet
discussions, I tried the docile established Niger trigger and a new
(similar sized) Picasso trigger together. No dice!
<A poor idea>
Niger did not like him near his hiding place and harassed him even after
my checking to see if they could re-establish territories - so I
immediately caught the new trigger and placed him on a holding tank a
few days ago.
I am setting up a new larger tank and obviously rearranging rock (and
rehoming the grouper). Can I try the trigger pairing again?
<I would not... In the wild some species are social... best ex. Odonus
niger as sub-adults, Xanthichthys mento et al. as adults... some get
about as pretty constant pairs, e.g. Blue-throats, but most Balistids
are
loners, and do NOT mix with other trigger species... only courting their
own in brief association during "breeding". In captivity, most should be
kept singly>
What else can go with them - I have a Coral Beauty Angel and a
Sharp-Nosed puffer in the same tank with the Niger (who I believe is
scared of the grouper) - another reason to rehome.
<Need to read, experiment, perhaps with removing, floating established,
more "alpha" species/individuals for days while new, less alpha ones are
introduced, rested in the DT>
Can I add anything else to the Niger Trigger, Coral Beauty, Sharp-noised
Puffer (and hopefully Picasso trigger mix) if al introduced at once? And
do I really put them all in at once?
<More reading>
I think Anthias are pretty, as are other triggers. May a Volitans Lion,
or something else that can hold their own?
<Not good choices with triggers>
FOWLR - so I need some more biodiversity (under the assumption my larger
tank can support it).
Thanks!
Aleasha
Dundalk, MD
<BobF, San Diego, CA>
Triggerfish/Reef Safe 4/7/09
Good Afternoon guys,
<Hello, whomever you are.>
First off, thanks for the great site! It has helped me many a times over
the years on my growing quantity of saltwater tanks.
<You're welcome.>
Recently I have begun gathering the funds/purchasing things to set up a
new 75-100gal tank... I currently have a 30gal reef set up with a 10
gallon sump/refugium on it that I have had for a couple years as well as
a 40 gallon mantis tank. I am looking into housing a trigger in my new
75-100gal tank (which he will probably get mostly to himself) aside from
frags from my reef and rock. Is there any specific species of trigger
that get along better with Corals than others?
<The Blue Jaw/Chin Triggerfish, genera Xanthichthys, is probably one of
the best, but I'd lean more toward that 100 gallon tank rather than the
75.
Most triggerfish need more room than a 75 can provide. Concentrate on
more length/width than height in your tank selection. Read here and
related articles/FAQ's on triggerfish.
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/fishes/triggers/index.htm>
Additionally I have read that some triggers grow very slowly (what is
the growth rate for triggers?), if this is true what species do this and
would I be able to house them temporarily in my reef tank while I am
setting up and cycling the large one... knowing of course that I would
not make them live in there permanently.
<A difficult question to answer, too many variables, water quality, tank
size, nutrition, etc. all have a hand in rate of growth.>
I was leaning more towards a small niger trigger ( my LFS has several
small 1-2" ones right now ) and I feel down right bad for the with the
conditions they are under at the LFS.
<This triggerfish grows rather large and I would not recommend it for
the size of tank you have in mind, and is not quite as reef safe as
triggerfish from the Xanthichthys (sic) family <<genus>>.>
Thanks in advance!
<You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)>
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> Re: Missing Anemone 9/25/08
Thanks for the quick reply!
<Welcome>
The strange thing about this
is that the anemone and fish had lived together just fine for 2 weeks,
never bothering each other.
<Just took them a while to get around to
checking it out.>
Are anemones part of the trigger fish's natural
diet?
<Not usually, but they will sample most anything they can, as
will your puffer.>
<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.>
Re: Trigger Crazy – 09/24/08
Thanks Marco,
<Welcome.>
this is actually my first testing of the waters so to speak. This is my
first fish tank, not counting the 50 gallon that lasted about 2 weeks,
because it was too small. I figured Hawaii was the best place to "learn
the hobby" I started with "Wild Captured" butterflies however quickly
realized they were just too tender to transport. I've since progressed
to the triggers, which have proven both hardy and entertaining fish.
Once I've completed my "Bachelors Degree in Home Aquaria" and the Army
moves me back to the main land. In my retirement home I plan to do my
"Masters" with a 1000 gal. So as this is both fun and educational now,
it does have a larger purpose. I figure in the 1000 I can get away with
much the same mix, maybe minus Pablo (that is what we named the fish,
BTW) however, he is the kid crowd pleaser. I'm just not too sure as to
how he will temper with age, so to speak, as most of the wild ones I see
seem to be very solitary customers. So, I continue to research and read
and educate myself. I hoping to get away with a couple of Wrasse types
in the 1000 gal. I'm looking at Dragon, Christmas, Yellow Tailed Coris
and Hawaiian Blue Cleaner to round out the posse. I figure 8 fish, 1000
gal and all the bells and whistles that money can buy filtration and
lighting will set it up nicely without any overcrowding issues, and it
should make a nice display.
<Indeed, should become impressive. Good
to hear to are planning to have larger quarters for your trigger clique.
In my experience it would rather be the Odonus, which might become a
little aggressive when larger, not so the Rhinecanthus, despite their
somewhat solitary nature they appear to function well in mixed
societies, but this may depend on the personality of the fish and R.
species. I’m not a big fan of the Cleaner wrasses due to their often
limited lifespan in captivity, I do wish you luck if you decide to have
this fish in your community. Enjoy your triggers! 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.>
Judgment question on changing pH... Umm, no... more basal questions
re human motivation, thinking/learning processes. Mis-stocked
system, iatrogenic errors/problems 4/16/08
Hello
WWM Crew,
<Jason>
I have been extensively reading here at WWM
and learned a lot, so thanks for all of the great work. I have a
100g marine FOWLR tank with three triggerfish (Undulated, Niger,
Pink Tail) and one moray eel (Chain).
<... troubles>
I realize
the conflict issues with having other fish with the Undulated, but
I've decided to take the risk. The tank has been up and running for
about 6 weeks now with no issues, aside from an arrow crab that
ended up breakfast for the triggers (I figured it was worth a try)
and a snowflake eel that escaped (the side of the lid with the
heater and pump now has a custom cardboard cutout taped down).
<... I do hope not to be reincarnated...>
After all that reading
I've come to the conclusion that sometimes trying to adjust the pH
is more trouble than it's worth.
<Okay...>
My current pH is
7.7 - 7.8 according to the LFS and my API 5 in 1 test strips.
<Not accurate>
All other numbers are good, KH is just under 300
(I have a piece of coral that seems to keep the Ca levels up). Alk
is around 10. From what I can find, the triggers pH range starts at
around 8.1 - 8.2. Should I even bother trying to raise the pH?
<Mmm, a larger issue than this... Should you attempt to keep them
period? Depending on what gear you're employing, there is much more
than pH that will need to be addressed in such a small volume... Re
the pH by itself, yes to reading, understanding the relationship
twixt it as a static reading and alkalinity/alkaline reserve as a
driver, sustainer of pH... though it's not really the issue here:
http://wetwebmedia.com/marphalk.htm
and the linked files above>
That leads me to my second (and less important) question. Sometimes
the triggers (mostly the Undulated) swim around hitting the live
rock.
<Very bad behavior>
I'm pretty sure it's not a disease
as they are showing no symptoms. I think they're just being
aggressive and checking which rocks they can move at their current
size. I was wondering if it's because of stress or just typical
trigger behavior?
<Is symptomatic of real trouble here.
Behavioral and physiological. You seriously need to examine your own
psychological profile as an aquarist, perhaps more here... What is
it you intend by jamming all this incompatible life together in such
a small, unsuitable volume? Really. Do you understand what I'm
stating here? Know yourself, then go out an act in the world... What
you currently have is untenable. Won't work... Re-read on WWM re the
Systems, Compatibility of what you have crammed together here...
Trade, give most of it away. Formulate a work-able stocking plan.
Bob Fenner>
Thanks for the insight,
Jason |
Re: Judgment questions on changing pH 4/16/08
Hello WWM Crew,
<Hello>
First of all, thank you for responding to my e-mail. I'm
writing in again because I don't feel like my question was answered.
The more info I provided the more the response drifted away from my
main question so I'll be direct. My Local Fish Store (not sure how
you determined they're wrong) says my pH is consistent at 7.7 - 7.8
and the fish in my take need a minimum pH of 8.1 - 8.2. I understand
the relationship between pH and Alk, as I said I've done much
research. Question: should I attempt to raise the pH to within the
range of the fish?
<Yes, these are not freshwater fish which will
tolerate a certain amount of variance in pH. Marine fish do not have
this ability, they are adapted to live in the stable pH environment
of the ocean. This pH change does still need to be done slowly
though.>
Now that I've directly asked my main question and
hopefully receive a direct answer, I'm going to take a second to
respond to a few of your points. I have had a successful trigger
tank with a Niger, Picasso and one Arrow Crab so I did have reason
to believe the crab could work.
<Evidence would seem to indicate
otherwise.>
I knew eels are escape artists so I did put effort
into keeping the snowflake in the tank but he was more resourceful
than I expected. There was no intent to harm the animals. I'm not
sure why my 'psychological profile' was brought up but I believe the
WWM staff are professionals so I'm not going to take that digression
personally.
<Well, you are asking these creatures to go against
their nature. Its thousands of years of stimulus/response here, and
not likely to change.>
I put the Pink Tail in the tank first,
than the Niger, followed by the Undulated so by order of
aggressiveness and size and the time they've had to settle in it
should minimize the conflict as much as possible. If any of the
triggers start to get beat up I will definitely be trading them in
to ease the stress in the tank, but that isn't
happening now.
<Will happen, I am guessing the nigger first, the pink tail, the
Undulated should be the last.>
I am anticipating eventually
having to give up either the Niger or Pink Tail as they grow.
<Both, but by the time you realize it is time to get rid of them the
damage will be done, behavioral and physical damage will already
have occurred.>
The Pink Tail and the Niger get along fine.
<Not really, just their fear of the Undulated is probably
distracting them.>
All of the Triggers get along with the Eel.
The Undulated stays by himself most of the time.
<Big dog
doesn't hide behind other fish.>
I also have much live rock with
many caves and hiding spaces for them and I keep them well fed.
<At some point the weakest of the triggers will no longer be allowed
to feed, then the next weakest, then perhaps the eel assuming the
Undulated is the last one left.>
I understand what you are saying
but I also understand every situation is different. If the consensus
is this setup is impossible, please advise on what could work. In
order of what I want to keep it goes: 1) Undulated, 2) Moray Eel, 3)
Niger, 4) Pink Tail.
<One trigger and the Eel, although an
Undulated Trigger may still decide to sample an eel. Basically your
tank is not sustainable as currently stocked.>
<Chris><< and
thank you Chris... for this further resp. My BP can't handle much
more. RMF>> |
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>
Black Trigger(s) clarification 12/19/07
Team,
<Joe>
Thanks for always being there to clear up the confusing and often
badly informed SW communities. My question today is about a fish
that I may be interested in acquiring from another SW enthusiast
(the Black Hawaiian Trigger).
<Mmm, would rather say/state the
or a Black Trigger, sometimes collected from Hawai'i.>
However,
there seems to be a great deal of miss-information out there on this
species and I'm hoping for some clarification.
I have seen them
called:
1. Black Hawaiian Trigger - Claims of up to 18"
<Mmm,
more like a foot or so>
2. Indian Trigger - Claims of sizes up to
10"
<About this... and a separate species>
3. Black Durgeon
Trigger - Claims of sizes up to 12"
<Mostly the/a common name
applied to Melichthys niger...>
Each seems to have different
sizes, but they seem to be cross referenced a lot.
I have also
seem the technical names of:
1. Melichthys niger
<Numbers one
and three above>
2. Melichthys indicus
<Number two...>
So
question one are they different and if so, which one is the one
pictured?
<Please see both here:
http://wetwebmedia.com/marine/fishes/triggers/melichthys/index.htm
<Your pic looks like the Indian species>
Second question is this
species one of the Lionfish safe triggers (if there is such a thing)
that could be mixed in a large tank (200+gallons)?
<"Pretty" Lion
safe... I give about even odds...>
Wanted to be somewhat certain
before I drop a holy terror in an 8' tank that would be nearly
impossible to catch him out.
Thanks,
Joe
<Two (sturdy)
nets if so. Cheers, Bob Fenner> | 
|
Trigger Happy! (Multiple Triggerfish Compatability?) 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 som 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>
Re: Pink Tail and a Blue throat trigger together?
9/16/07
Thanks much, I will forgo picking up the blue throat
then. Mike
<Ah, good. I do think it is best to just stick with the
Melichthys. 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"
Dogfaced 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 Compatability 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.>
Re: Sargassum trigger comp.; Dog face puffer size follow up – 07/30/07
Marco,
<Thomas>
Fabulous stuff, thank you very much. Arothron
nigropunctatus, in the puffer ID section of WWM, is identical to my
puffer. He may be closer to 5", realistically, but has been this length
for years now.
<Interesting. Stunting and improper diet can probably
be excluded due to the large tank you have and the food you offer. I
also assume/hope the nitrates are permanently low given the other
sensitive fishes. Aside tank size, diet and water quality I cannot think
of a factor, which might stop the grow of your specimen. Possibly some
issues in its early life before you bought him.>
This is the one that
bit my finger! Often times when I feed my shark at night, I have to
scoop him out of the way. As long as he doesn't think my finger is food,
he is docile, likes being rubbed, and eats out of my hand. About 6
months ago I had purchased a tiny Picasso trigger, and the INSTANT I
placed him in the tank he attacked the puffer, so he was removed and
returned immediately.
<Another case of unpredictability. Some
Rhinecanthus are quite docile, this specimen not. A similar case cannot
be excluded with the Sargassum, but hopefully this time you are more
lucky. I guess it will rather be hiding for a while when introduced and
not start attacking.>
He does receive a varied diet, of cocktail
shrimp with Zoë, marine cuisine, krill, and angel formula. He also eats
his share of shark formula, unfortunately.
<OK, good diet. The dog
face puffers I know/knew personally which have grown from 4 inches to
almost 1 foot in captivity ate lots of mussels and clams, because they
seemed to like it and it abraded their teeth. Could be worth a try in
case you haven’t tested yet.>
He just has remained this size. I have
no idea why. For a while he was in an 80 gallon before the upgrade, but
for most of the time he was pretty much the only occupant. Anyway,
thanks for the info. We won't be adding the Sargassum trigger for a
couple of weeks, while we observe the system to make sure all of the ick
was killed with the quinine. Thanks again!
Thomas.
<You are
welcome. Keep up the good work and enjoy. 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>>
West African Species, trigger incomp. 11/27/06
To Whom It
May Concern,
<Mike>
Attached are two pictures of my most
recent addition to my tank. The first is the Monrovia Doctorfish
(Acanthurus monroviae) the second picture is the West African
Triggerfish (Balistes punctatus). Sorry they are a little blurry.
<Yes...>
I was hoping you could provide me with information
about these species habitat.
<Mmm, I see from the other
highlighted/linked scientific names that you're familiar with
fishbase.org... this (looking up the species themselves and others
in the same genera) and looking at pix (for clues about the ecology)
of the area these are found is instructive. I unfortunately have not
dived the areas where these species occur>
I have never kept
species from this region of the world and was curious about their
environment. I have kept various triggerfish and tangs in the past
are there anything that these fish would require other then the
normal care?
<Mmm, likely very similar care>
What type of
conditions do these species regularly encounter in there natural
environment? Is there anything that I should be providing theses
species with, certain foods, water temperature, specific salinity
levels, etc.?
<Likely similar...>
Any information you could
provide me to ensure proper husbandry and allow
them a long and
happy life would be greatly appreciated.
They are currently
housed in a 390 gallon tank with the following species
Vlamingii
Tang (
<http://fishbase.org/Summary/speciesSummary.php?ID=6024&genusname=Naso&speci
esname=vlamingii> Naso vlamingii ) 8 in
Niger Trigger ( <http://fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=1311>
Odonus niger ) 6 in
Mappa Puffer ( <http://fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=7857>
Arothron mappa ) 8 in
French Angel ( <http://fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=1118>
Pomacanthus paru )5 in
Queen Triggerfish ( <http://fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=19>
Balistes vetula) 7 in
Titan Triggerfish ( <http://fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=6026>
Balistoides viridescens ) 7 in
<Yikes... keep your eye on these
last two... can "turn" on the other fish species here>
Starry
Triggerfish ( <http://fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=9>
Abalistes stellaris ) 6 in
Jeweled Damselfish 3 in
Clown
Triggerfish ( <http://fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=2300>
Balistoides conspicillum ) 5 in
<And this one for sure>
Halfmoon Triggerfish (
<http://fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=5842>
Sufflamen
chrysopterum ) 3 in
Rectangle Triggerfish (
<http://fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=5840>
Rhinecanthus
rectangulus ) 2 in
Picasso Triggerfish (
<http://fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=5839>
Rhinecanthus
aculeatus ) 2 in
Asassai Triggerfish (
<http://fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=25420>
Rhinecanthus
assasi ) 4 in
Coney Grouper 7 in
Golden
Tail Moray 11 in
Yellow Tang (Zebrasoma flavescens) 4in
<Well... the three species of Balistids noted are/will be
incompatible here in time... WW III... and this is going to be too
much life period here... psychologically, physiologically...>
You can keep the pics and use them if you like. If you want I will
try to send better pictures for you.
<Would appreciate this...
and post to your credit on WWM>
Thank you in advance for all
your time.
Sincerely,
Mike Striegel
<Bob Fenner> |  
|
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?
<Heeeeeeee! 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>> Re: Blue Throat Triggers in a Reef? -
07/18/06
Hi again you guys!
<<Hello Pam!>>
So, I took
your advice (Eric) and I purchased two Blue Throat Triggers (BTT's)
directly from Hawaii a few weeks ago.
<<Ahh, Excellent!>>
They
arrived a lot larger than we would have hoped, but they are beautiful
(especially him, but don't tell her!).
<<Indeed...wonderful fish>>
They looked very healthy but apparently came to me very stressed.
<<Hmm...possibly handled poorly>>
We weren't sure they were going to
make it through the acclimation process (the male was particularly
stressed, bobbing head down in the tank and floating almost completely
upside down, it wasn't pretty).
<<Yikes!>>
Thankfully they did
survive and once we got them eating a whole week later, they seem great!
<<Yay!>>
It was very difficult to get them to eat. We tried
everything from a homemade fish food recipe all our other fish love, to
live Brine shrimp, frozen Mysis, krill, squid, and the list goes on.
<<I'm surprised by this, I must say>>
We tried to feed them for a
full week to no avail......finally a fellow hobbyist (from Wamus) told
us about this frozen freshwater Mysis from Canada.
<<Yes, PE
Mysis...an excellent food>>
He brought some over that night and we
couldn't believe it...they inhaled the Mysis!
<<Very good>>
I
tried two other brands they did not touch before that!
<<Try them
now...>>
Needless to say, I can't seem to feed them often
enough-they love this high protein stuff!
<<Be careful...several
"small" feedings per day. Also, wouldn't hurt to soak these in Selcon
(or similar) a couple times a week>>
It is made by Piscine Energetic
(FYI). For the past three weeks these BT are feeding well, and looking
terrific (until yesterday).
<<Ruht-Roh>>
We were planning on
putting them in the main population since we just did our water change
in the main tank and my Q-tank is small for them. We noticed some spots
on the fins (especially on the male). We have been doing very regular
water changes in the Q (a few times a week) using water from the main
tank and keeping a very close eye on pH and ammonia. No issues. We did
lose power a few times about a week ago, but they had a battery air
stone in there the whole time (maybe it was stressful, but they seemed
fine and the temp didn't change. They are acting normal and look
healthy so I don't know what to do about this (action or ignore).
I
don't think this is Ick because it doesn't look like salt and they
aren't scratching against the live rocks or anything. Luckily I am not
a disease or parasite expert since that has not been a problem in my
tank and I have a UV filter on the main tank. This looks like faded
white spots on one of the tips (not near the gills) of the male's fins
and her lower fin (under her belly). I am afraid to treat what I don't
know and I am also afraid to do a freshwater dip or anything that could
stress these fish we have worked so hard to keep acclimated and stress
free. Does this sound like something that will treat itself? Should I
be worried? Do you know what this is?
<<Is smart of you not to
panic/treat until you have confirmed the need to do so. These spots are
normal/natural markings...nothing to worry about. At first glance they
do appear very much like parasites, but careful observation will reveal
they are indeed markings on the fins>>
I have put some Kent Garlic
Xtreme in the Mysis when I feed the past two times-any other ideas?
<<I don't think you need be concerned...you can continue occasionally
with the garlic additive if you wish, it may serve as a preventive
measure towards internal parasites. You might also try it with the
other foods as an enticement>>
Long story short (I know, too
late).....I am so happy you helped convince me to get them.
<<It
pleases me greatly to hear this>>
I can't wait to see them happy and
swimming in the main tank. It was difficult to get them acclimated and
they have had some stress, but all in all seem to be very happy and
don't even stress during water changes anymore!
<<They will much
appreciate a cave/crevice in which to hide/sleep...though they probably
won't inhabit the same one>>
It's been three weeks and I would like
to take them out of the QT this week but need to know if these barely
visible spots are dangerous or if they will harm my other fish. And
what I should do if anything. I can't send a picture-it doesn't show
up.
<<No worries my friend. I believe all will be/is fine>>
Sorry to only write when I have a problem....but you always seem to save
the day.
<<Hee! High praise indeed!>>
Thanks!
Pam
<<Very welcome, do keep me posted on the pairs' progress. Regards, Eric
Russell>>
Blue Throat Triggers in a Reef? III - 07/18/06
Thanks again Eric-my hero!
<<I'm blushing, or maybe just beaming!
<grin>... You're very welcome>>
I will keep an eye on them but feel
much better now! I will try other foods again with the garlic as you
recommended.
<<Ah yes, and the Selcon/a vitamin product too>>
Thanks for the very quick reply and taking the time. You guys really
are a terrific resource and I appreciate that.
<<The guys and gals
here are pleased to do what we can>>
Have a great day,
Pam
<<And you my friend. EricR>>
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>>
Trigger Compatibility...Morays and Fishes II - 06/07/06
Eric,
<<Adam>>
Thanks for your insight--I really appreciate it.
<<Is
my pleasure>>
What I'm gathering is that a Clown trigger is best
kept alone in its own tank?
<<Is what "I" think, yes>>
If so, I
think I'll pass on a clown because while they are beautiful, it's more
fun to have a community of some sort, in my opinion.
<<Agreed...unless you have the facilities to do both <G> >>
I've
never had an eel. When you feed them with the tongs by sticking the
food in front of them...how do you prevent other fish from "stealing"
the eel's meal?
<<This indeed can be problematic if you have fish
that share the same diet. Best to feed the fish first, then attend to
the eel...warding off the fishy thieves as/if necessary>>
Would my
Niger and Humu Humu triggers be OK tankmates with the eel?
<<The
Rhinecanthus is likely a danger to the eel while the Odonus, though
somewhat less a threat, may still take a nip if afforded the opportunity
(While diving off the Kona coast last fall I saw a large Pink-Tail
trigger chasing and nipping at a three-foot moray as it frantically
searched the sea floor for a place to escape/hide)>>
If I went this
way then I'd have to opt against putting Chromis, pajama cardinals and
your recommendation of Lyretail Anthias in there as the Triggers would
kill them, right?
<<Here again the Humu Humu is the bigger
concern. I have a male Blue-Throat trigger (Xanthichthys
auromarginatus) in my 375g reef with Lyretail Anthias and some assorted
small wrasses...never been a problem. The mostly planktonic feeding
triggers can be mixed with smaller fishes quite successfully. Though I
must say, Odonus niger gets considerably larger than most (to 18" in the
wild) and will outgrow most home systems. The Blue-Throat, Pink-Tail,
or Crosshatch triggers would be better choices in my opinion>>
Assuming the Niger and Humu Humu could go with the zebra moray in the
240...what else would go well? A lion fish? A puffer?
<<The lion
fish would be suitable in my opinion, but the puffer would not...another
"nipper">>
I'm from the southeast myself--grew up in Atlanta.
<<Ahh...I'm a transplant actually...20 years in the military, happened
to end up in SC at retirement...liked it and stayed>>
Best,
Adam
<<Regards, EricR>>
Trigger Compatibility...Morays and Fishes
III - 06/08/06
Eric,
<<Morning Adam>>
Thanks again for
your insight.
<<Anytime>>
So...Humu Humu, Niger, puffer could
all go well in a 125 g?
<<For a time (several years), yes>>
What
else could go with them? (Without overcrowding.)
<<Mmm, the $64,000
question...the fish you have listed will be big/messy feeders...as such
your filtration system will be taxed as it is (let me recommend you
employ a fluidized-bed filter in conjunction with your other
filtration). But for some diversity I think you could add a few fast
moving "smaller" fishes, perhaps a handful of Chromis viridis. Be sure
to have enough live rock in the system so they can dart to safety if
necessary>>
I have an opportunity to buy a panther grouper, a lion
fish and two (some types of morays) which are all local and eating well
in a private aquarium...so any advice on mixing them in is
appreciated. (I'm not set on buying any of them necessarily.)
<<These could make a handsome display in the 240g tank you mentioned
previously. Though in this instance, adding any small fishes as
discussed would likely turn out to be expensive snacks for the grouper
and the lion...even the morays, depending on species>>
Best,
Adam
<<Regards, 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>>
Blue Throat Triggers in a Reef? II - 04/19/06
Thank you so much
for the advice Eric! I think you sold us!
<<Ah, great!>>
Have a
great day!
-Pam and Rob
<<I know you will enjoy the
triggers. 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 diner.> <<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 marron 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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