Care
The Indian Triggerfish is known from the Red Sea and East Africa and eastwards to western Thailand and Sumatra, Indonesia. Here this solitary species may be found inhabiting coral-rich seaward reef slopes, feeding on algae, crustaceans, small invertebrates, and sponges, to depths of 30m (98ft). At night, these fish have been observed digging holes below coral bases for shelter. The Indian Trigger has a subtle beauty and is one of the few triggerfish species that can be safely kept in most reef aquaria. With the exception of sponges, sessile invertebrates are typically ignored, but it must be mentioned that larger Indian Triggerfish are likely to eat any ornamental shrimp or snails that they come across. These fish are therefore ideal for those spacious reef set ups without any crustaceans, gastropods, or sponges. These fish have a voracious appetite and good filtration is essential, along with areas of brisk water movement. Tankmates should be chosen with care as Indian Triggerfish, whilst not anywhere near as belligerent as other members of the family, can still be moderately aggressive. Keep only one per tank and with confident companions that are of similar size or larger, or tankmates that are slightly smaller but more-aggressive. Do not risk housing Indian Triggers with any small, docile fish as they will become a snack. Although this species may be a little shy when first introduced to the aquarium, the fish will soon gain confidence, becoming quite tame and even spitting water at the surface in anticipation of feeding time. As with all fish, personalities can differ and there are occasional reports of "rogue fish". The vast majority of specimens will be safe in a reef environment, but we advise that you observe your individual specimens carefully. This should be the last fish introduced to the aquarium. May also be seen on sale as Black-finned Triggerfish or Indian Black Triggerfish.
Feeding
Meaty frozen foods such as vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp, Krill, sponge-based preparations (available as frozen cubes, marketed usually for Angelfish), chopped shrimp/squid/cockle/mussel. Feed small amounts 3 times per day.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in the home aquarium. In the wild, these fish form distinct pairs when spawning.
