Redtoothed Triggerfish (Odonus niger)

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Redtoothed Triggerfish

Odonus niger2342.jpg
Redtoothed Triggerfish

Odonus niger

757 Litres (200 US G.)

30.5-50.8cm (12-20 ")

pH

8.1 - 8.4

22.2-25.6°C (72 -78 °F)

8-12 °d

1:1 M:F

Omnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods
Other (See article)

5-10 years

Family

Balistidae



Additional names

Redtoothed Triggerfish, Niger Triggerfish, Blue Triggerfish

Additional scientific names

Xenodon niger, Balistes erythrodon, Odonus erythrodon


Sexing

It is difficult to visually sex this fish and they are not known to breed in captivity.


Tank compatibility

A highly territorial fish, best kept alone or with other similar sized semi-aggressive fish. Will eat smaller fish and invertebrates, must be in a fish-only set up.


Diet

Should be fed a meaty diet consisting of krill, shrimp, clams, squid and should include hard-shelled shrimp to wear down their teeth.


Feeding regime

Feed two to three times a day.


Environment specifics

Requires a mature laterally spacious tank with plenty of hiding places in live rock. All décor should be secure as this fish is known for rearranging its environment.


Behaviour

A highly aggressive and territorial fish, in captivity this fish will terrorize tank mates. In the wild they form large schools to feed on zooplankton and sponges. It vocalizes using a "grunting" sound.


Identification

A typical Triggerfish in shape, with an oval body and eyes set far back from the snout. The body is generally indigo-blue, sometimes closer to purple, in colour and the caudal fin is sharply forked. Mature fish have bright red teeth, giving them their common name.

Pictures

External links