Red Tail Triggerfish

Also known as Blue Jaw Trigger, Red Tail Niger Trigger

The Red Tail Triggerfish is a stunning and relatively peaceful triggerfish featuring a deep purple-blue body with distinctive red caudal and dorsal fin edges. This species combines the beauty of vibrant coloration with a calmer temperament compared to many other triggers, making it an excellent choice for larger community fish-only systems. Its bold colors intensify with maturity and proper care.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Xanthichthys ringens
• Common Names: Red Tail Trigger, Blue Jaw Trigger, Red Tail Niger Trigger
• Adult Size: Up to 10 inches
• Lifespan: 10+ years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive; one of the calmer triggerfish
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe with caution; may nip at some invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Intermediate; hardy but requires proper tank size

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Provide ample open swimming space with live rock formations featuring caves and overhangs. Appreciates moderate to strong water flow and high water quality. Secure all decorations and equipment firmly.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Prefers pristine water conditions

Equipment Recommendations:

• High-quality filtration system
• Efficient protein skimmer
• Strong water circulation
• Tight-fitting lid (can jump when startled)

These maintain optimal conditions for this active swimmer.

Diet & Feeding

Red Tail Triggerfish are carnivores requiring varied protein-rich foods.

Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, carnivore pellets
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, krill, squid, clams, scallops, octopus, chopped fish
• Hard-shelled Foods: Snails, small crabs, shellfish (helps maintain healthy teeth)
• Variety: Regular rotation of different protein sources

Feeding Frequency: 1-2 times daily

Special Note: Requires hard-shelled foods periodically to wear down constantly growing teeth. Enthusiastic eater that readily accepts prepared foods.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Tankmates: Compatible with most medium to large semi-aggressive fish
• Peaceful Nature: Much less aggressive than most triggerfish species
• Multiple Specimens: Males and females can sometimes be kept together in large systems
• Reef Caution: Generally ignores corals but may occasionally nip at ornamental shrimp and snails

Notes & Considerations

• One of the more peaceful triggerfish species available.
• Stunning coloration with red-edged tail and fins that intensify with age.
• Males develop more vibrant coloration and larger size than females.
• Highly intelligent and can learn to recognize their owner.
• May produce clicking or grunting sounds when disturbed.
• Less likely to rearrange rockwork compared to other triggers.
• Teeth grow continuously; it requires hard foods to keep them properly worn.
• Can coexist with some less aggressive fish unlike many triggers.
• Occasionally jumps when startled; secure lid recommended.
• Generally leaves corals alone making it more reef-compatible than most triggers.
• May sample small ornamental shrimp or snails but not as destructive as other species.
• Hardy once acclimated; relatively disease-resistant.
• Active swimmer that needs substantial open water space.
• Becomes quite personable and may beg for food at the glass.
• Excellent choice for those wanting triggerfish personality with less aggression.

Why Choose a Quarantined Red Tail Triggerfish?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and trained on varied prepared foods before sale, giving you the best foundation for long-term success with this beautiful and personable species.