Crosshatch Triggerfish

Also known as Blue-lined Triggerfish, Crosshatch Trigger

The Crosshatch Triggerfish is a stunning and highly sought-after species, featuring an intricate pattern of blue crosshatch lines over a golden-yellow to brown body. This intelligent, personable fish is known for its bold personality and striking appearance. While more assertive than the Niger Trigger, it remains one of the more manageable triggerfish species and can be a spectacular centerpiece for the right aquarium setup.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Xanthichthys mento
• Common Names: Crosshatch Trigger, Blue-lined Trigger
• Adult Size: Up to 10-12 inches (often 8-10 inches in aquariums)
• Lifespan: 10+ years with proper care
• Temperament: Moderately aggressive; can be territorial but generally peaceful compared to other triggers
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe with caution; may nip at some invertebrates but typically ignores corals
• Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
• Experience Level: Intermediate; requires stable conditions and thoughtful tankmate selection

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Provide ample open swimming space with rockwork featuring caves, overhangs, and hiding spots. Appreciates moderate to strong water flow and plenty of territory. Secure all equipment and decorations as this species can be curious and may rearrange items.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Prefers stable, well-established systems with excellent water quality

Equipment Recommendations:

• Robust filtration system
• Protein skimmer
• Strong water circulation
• Secure tight-fitting lid (can jump)

These maintain optimal conditions for this active, intelligent species.

Diet & Feeding

Crosshatch Triggerfish are carnivores with powerful jaws designed to crush hard-shelled prey.

Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, carnivore pellets
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, krill, squid, clams, scallops, chopped seafood, silversides
• Hard-shelled Foods: Snails, small crabs, shrimp with shells (helps wear down constantly growing teeth)
• Variety: Alternate foods to provide balanced nutrition and enrichment

Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily

Special Note: Requires hard-shelled foods regularly to maintain healthy teeth. Enthusiastic eater with a hearty appetite. Very food-motivated and can be trained to hand-feed.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Tankmates: Best with semi-aggressive to aggressive fish of similar size; may harass smaller, timid species
• Multiple Triggers: Can sometimes be kept with other triggers in very large systems (240+ gallons), though individual temperament varies
• Reef Caution: May nip at crustaceans, snails, and sea urchins, but generally leaves corals and most sessile invertebrates alone
• Aggression Level: Moderate; territorial but not excessively aggressive for a triggerfish

Notes & Considerations

• One of the most beautiful triggerfish species available in the hobby.
• Males develop more vibrant coloration and longer dorsal filaments than females.
• Highly intelligent and interactive; recognizes owners and displays interesting behaviors.
• Teeth grow continuously; it requires hard-shelled foods to keep them worn down.
• May rearrange rockwork and sand to suit its preferences.
• Produces clicking sounds when excited, stressed, or establishing territory.
• Can become territorial, especially in smaller tanks or with new additions.
• Excellent jumper; secure lid is absolutely essential.
• More active during the day; rests in caves or rockwork at night.
• Coloration intensifies with age, proper diet, and stable conditions.
• Hardy and disease-resistant once acclimated.
• May become tame and hand-feed with patience and regular interaction.
• Introduce last or among the last fish to minimize territorial aggression.

Why Choose a Quarantined Crosshatch Triggerfish?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, stress-free fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept a variety of prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this magnificent and charismatic species.