Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Aggressive
Reef Compatible: No
General Description: The Clown Triggerfish has a wide distribution from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean, found along reef edges or drop-offs where their prey of shellfish and other invertebrates are plentiful. Perhaps the most sought after triggerfish in the hobby for its stunning appearance, the Clown trigger comes with an attitude to match. At smaller sizes (~2 – 4″), Clown triggers can be more docile and shy, but with maturation, they become bold and fearless. Care should be taken when selecting appropriate tank-mates and decor for an aquarium housing a Clown trigger. An adult Clown trigger can reach a size of approximately 18″.
Diet Requirements: Clown triggers are carnivores and are not overly picky eaters. 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.
Care Requirements: A minimum 200 gallon aquarium that is at least 18″+ wide is ideal. Smaller specimens can be temporarily raised in smaller quarters (no less than 125 gallons) as long as it is upgraded accordingly. The Clown trigger appreciates some live rock in the aquarium, especially caves and crevices to take refuge in if felt threatened. The Clown trigger is especially known to reaquascape live rock in the aquarium; rock should be selected based on the propensity (size) of the triggerfish to be able to move it. Clown triggers are best kept as one individual per aquarium as they are intolerable of each other; compatability with other trigger species is variable. Clown triggers will consume invertebrates and nip at corals, which is why they are not recommended for reef aquariums. Many timid and peaceful fish species should be avoided as tank-mates with a Clown trigger not only because of the large size it will reach, but its obnoxious nature. Larger, aggressive or quick fish (e.g., angels, tangs, squirrelfish, Thalassoma wrasses, larger damsels, etc.) are good tank-mate candidates. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size: Small: 2″ to 2-3/4″; Medium: 3″ to 4-1/4″; Large: 4-1/2″ to 5-3/4″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
