Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Reef Compatible: No

General Description: The Indian Black Trigger, also referred to as the Indian Trigger, Black-finned Trigger, or “Hawaiian” Black Trigger, has a wide distribution across the Indo-Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Red Sea. Coloration of the Indian black trigger varies considerably to location and on an individual basis. Aquarium lighting can also play a role in how your Indian black trigger appears. Generally speaking, the Indian black trigger’s body color can be an olive green to black, with very black dorsal, caudal, and anal fins that have a white edge. The Indian black trigger has been observed to exhibit less belligerent behavior compared to some other triggerfish species in this genus. Because of this, the Indian black trigger has been successfully kept in less aggressive, but active, aquariums. An adult Indian black trigger can reach a size of approximately 10″.

Diet Requirements: Indian black triggers are carnivores. A diet consisting of various proteins and frozen preparations such as brine shrimp, squid, mysis shrimp, krill, chopped fish, and clams will maintain optimal health and coloration. We highly encourage soaking frozen foods in vitamin and fatty acid supplements, as triggers are continually active and have high metabolisms. This species would also benefit from some algae supplementation.

Care Requirements: A minimum 125 gallon aquarium is ideal. Smaller specimens can be temporarily raised in smaller quarters (no less than 75 gallons) as long as it is upgraded accordingly. Like all triggers, the Indian black trigger appreciates abundant live rock in the aquarium, especially caves and crevices to take refuge in if felt threatened. Compatability with other and/or more aggressive trigger species is variable, but only one Indian black trigger should be kept per aquarium. Indian black triggers, while listed here as not reef safe, have been added “with caution” into reef aquariums. They typically do not nip at corals, but members of the reef’s clean-up crew would be at risk of becoming a meal. This trigger would thrive best in both active “peaceful” or semi-aggressive fish only with live rock aquariums. Extremely timid and docile species should be avoided. Tank mates should be of equal size to your Indian black trigger unless it is a fish that can hold its own due to a more aggressive temperament. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.

Purchase Size: Small: 2-1/2″ or less; Medium: 2-3/4″ to 3-3/4″; Large: 4″ to 5″

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.