Blue Throat Trigger Fish

The Blue Throat Triggerfish (Xanthichthys auromarginatus), also known as the Bluechin Triggerfish or Gilded Triggerfish, is a striking marine species appreciated for its vibrant colors and relatively peaceful demeanor. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around the Philippines and Indonesia, this species is a popular choice among aquarists due to its hardiness and compatibility with reef environments.

(REEF SAFE WITH CAUTION / INTERMEDIATE)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Blue Throat Triggerfish, Bluechin Triggerfish, Gilded Triggerfish
• Scientific Name: Xanthichthys auromarginatus
• Family: Balistidae
• Origin/Habitat: Found in the Indo-Pacific region, especially around the Philippines and Indonesia; typically inhabits deeper reef areas below 75 feet (23 meters) with strong currents and abundant invertebrate life.
• Maximum Size: Reaches up to 9 inches (23 cm) in length.
• Lifespan: Can live up to 11 years or more in captivity with proper care.
• Level of Difficulty: Intermediate; suitable for aquarists with some experience due to specific care requirements.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Males exhibit a bluish-gray body adorned with light-blue spots, a distinctive blue patch on the throat, and yellow-edged fins. Females are generally less vibrant, lacking the blue throat patch and yellow fin margins.
• Body Shape & Structure: Oval-shaped, laterally compressed body with a slightly upturned snout; equipped with strong jaws and ever-growing teeth that require regular wear.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: A 125-gallon (475-liter) aquarium is recommended to provide ample space for swimming and territory establishment.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 72°F and 78°F (22°C to 26°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.020 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Incorporate ample live rock formations to create caves and hiding spots, mimicking natural reef environments; ensure open swimming areas are available.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Carnivorous
• Preferred Foods: In the wild, they feed on copepods and other small invertebrates. In captivity, a varied diet including meaty foods such as squid, krill, clams, small fish, and hard-shelled shrimp is recommended to help wear down their continuously growing teeth.
• Feeding Frequency: Offer food 2 to 3 times daily in appropriate portions to maintain health and vibrant coloration.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Generally peaceful, especially when compared to other triggerfish species; may exhibit territorial behavior, particularly towards similar-looking species.
• Social Behavior: Can be kept singly, as a male-female pair, or even in groups (one male and several females) if introduced simultaneously.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with a variety of peaceful and semi-aggressive species; caution is advised with small ornamental shrimp and crabs, as they may be preyed upon.
• Activity Level: Active swimmer, often seen patrolling the tank; known to rearrange landscaping and rocks.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Hardy and adaptable; thrives in well-maintained aquariums with stable water parameters.
• Special Requirements: Regular water changes and monitoring are essential to maintain water quality; providing a varied diet enhances health and helps manage tooth growth.
• Breeding Info: Breeding in captivity is rare; males may exhibit more vibrant coloration during spawning periods.
• Additional Notes: Known to produce a grunting sound, often referred to as "talking," especially when distressed or during feeding.