Blue Throat Triggerfish - Male
Blue Throat Triggerfish - Male
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FAQs Answers to the most common questions.
How large an aquarium does an adult Blue Jaw Triggerfish need?
Plan on a 180-gallon aquarium or larger for long-term housing, prioritizing open horizontal swimming room. Rockwork should still provide caves and crevices for retreat.
Is the Blue Jaw Triggerfish safe in a reef aquarium?
It is among the more coral-compatible triggerfishes, but it belongs in the reef-safe-with-caution category. Corals are typically left alone, while shrimp, hermit crabs, snails, urchins, feather-duster worms, and occasionally small fish may be attacked.
How can I tell a male from a female?
Adult males display a conspicuous blue patch across the chin and cheeks along with stronger yellow edging on the fins. Females lack the blue chin and show more subdued coloration and fin margins.
All listed sizes are approximate, not guaranteed, and may vary slightly.
Blue Throat Triggerfish (Xanthichthys auromarginatus)
The Blue Throat Triggerfish is a striking, reef-associated species admired for its calm demeanor and vibrant coloration. Males feature a vivid blue jaw and yellow-edged fins, while females display subtler hues of silver and blue. Found across the Indo-Pacific, this triggerfish inhabits deep reef slopes and open-water environments, bringing both color and personality to larger aquariums.
Tank Requirements
A minimum of 125 gallons is recommended to accommodate their active swimming habits. Provide abundant open space for cruising along with stable rock structures for resting and security. Good filtration, moderate-to-strong flow, and a secure lid are essential, as triggers are powerful jumpers.
Color, Personality, and Hardiness
Unlike many triggerfish, the Blue Jaw is mild-mannered and well-suited for community reef tanks. Males are particularly colorful and confident, while females tend to be more reserved. They are highly intelligent, responsive to their keepers, and among the hardier trigger species when acclimated properly.
Diet and Feeding
Omnivorous by nature, they thrive on a balanced diet of meaty fare such as shrimp, squid, clams, krill, and high-quality pellets formulated for marine carnivores. Provide variety to maintain their bright coloration and dental health. Feeding two to three times daily is ideal.
Tankmates and Behavior
Generally peaceful toward other species, Blue Jaw Triggerfish can coexist with tangs, angelfish, and larger wrasses. Avoid small ornamental shrimp, as they may be consumed. Their outgoing and interactive personalities make them excellent centerpiece fish for larger reef systems.
