Pinktail Triggerfish (Melichthys vidua)
• Small fish safe: ⚠️ With caution (generally peaceful but may eat very small fish)
• Small invert safe: ❌ No (will prey on small crustaceans and mollusks)
• Coral safe: ⚠️ With caution (less destructive than other triggers but may nip at corals)
• Minimum tank size: 380 liters (100 gallons) for juveniles, 570+ liters (150+ gallons) for adults
• Adult size: Up to 40 cm (16 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on plankton, small invertebrates, and algae
• Be aware of: One of the more peaceful triggerfish; requires open swimming space; may rearrange rockwork
Appearance and Coloration
The Pinktail Triggerfish is one of the more visually unique and less aggressive species in the triggerfish family. Its body is a deep greenish-black with blue highlights on the face, and it has a characteristic soft pink tail fin. The dorsal and anal fins are large and translucent, giving the fish an elegant appearance.
Unlike many other triggerfish, the Pinktail lacks strong facial markings, but its coloration shifts slightly under different lighting, making it a stunning yet subtly colored species in marine aquariums.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
Native to the Indo-Pacific and Eastern Pacific Oceans, Melichthys vidua is found in lagoon reefs, outer reef slopes, and deep coastal waters, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 50 meters (16 to 165 feet). It prefers areas with plenty of open space for swimming and rocky crevices for shelter.
The Pinktail Triggerfish is less aggressive than many other trigger species, making it one of the better choices for a semi-aggressive community tank. However, it can still become territorial, especially in smaller tanks or when housed with similar species.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
• Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons (380 liters) for juveniles, 150+ gallons (570+ liters) for adults
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 24°C – 27°C (75°F – 81°F)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
• Aquascaping:
• Provide open swimming areas as this species is an active swimmer.
• Secure rockwork and caves to allow for hiding spots.
• Avoid loose decorations, as Pinktail Triggers may move objects in the tank.
• Lighting: Moderate to bright reef lighting.
• Water Movement: Moderate to strong, simulating reef currents.
Diet and Feeding
Pinktail Triggerfish are omnivores, meaning they require a balanced diet of meaty foods and plant matter. Unlike more aggressive triggerfish, they also consume plankton and marine algae, making them slightly easier to feed.
• Natural Diet: Plankton, small crustaceans, mollusks, and marine algae.
• Captive Diet:
• Mysis and brine shrimp.
• Chopped seafood (shrimp, squid, clams).
• High-quality marine pellets and flakes.
• Nori or other algae-based foods to support overall health.
Feeding Frequency: 1-2 times per day to maintain energy levels and coloration.
Compatibility and Social Structure
• Temperament:
• One of the most peaceful triggerfish, but still semi-aggressive.
• Less likely to attack tank mates but may become territorial in smaller tanks.
• Tank Mates:
• Compatible with other semi-aggressive fish, such as:
• Tangs
• Large angelfish
• Puffers
• Other moderately aggressive triggers (in large tanks)
• Avoid housing with small ornamental shrimp or tiny fish, as they may be seen as prey.
• Not suitable for nano or peaceful community tanks.
• Reef Compatibility: ⚠️ With caution—less destructive than other triggers but may nibble on corals and invertebrates.
Important Considerations
• Can Be Territorial: Though more peaceful than most triggers, it may still defend its space in smaller tanks.
• May Rearrange Rockwork: Like all triggerfish, it moves objects in the tank, so ensure decorations are secure.
• Growth Rate: Can grow fairly quickly, requiring a large tank to accommodate its active swimming behavior.
• More Peaceful Option: If looking for a triggerfish that isn’t overly aggressive, this species is one of the best choices.