Smallest Trigger

[demonmagus]

Hi, what is the smallest trigger out there and a good tank size for one?


thanks

 

[Lynden]

The only known trigger to stay under about 8'' was the "Xenobalistes" Outrigger Triggerfish, a truly unusual animal. Unfortunately, this animal turned out to be just a baby Blue Throat! I guess that explains why so few were ever found.

The smallest triggers are certain Sufflamen triggers if I rememeber correctly, and these could be placed in a 55 gallon tank. Other species could be maintained in a tank this size when they are babies.

-Lynden

 

[demonmagus]

thanks I'm assuming the trigger would be the only fish in the tank?

 

[Lynden]

You wish

They can be combined with most other fish. Avoid the tiny gobies, which will likely be eaten. Make all new additions after the Trigger has gone to bed.

Though I do not have any experience with the genus Sufflamen, I would imagine they would not eat corals or most invertebrates. So a reef tank is still an option.

-Lynden

 

[demonmagus]

triggers are messy feeders, right? So would an ecosystem style sump be alright or is a protein skimmer needed as well?


thanks

 

[Lynden]

I don't consider planktivorous Triggers as 'messy eaters', as they are fast and precise predators of plankton. I would recommend a skimmer, but you can do without it, especially with your ecosystem sump.

Remember to change the mud in a few months - a process that sounds so daunting to me that it has totally deterred me from using that type of system.