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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 - 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.>
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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
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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>
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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> |
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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 kee |
