Pinktail Triggerfish (Melichthys vidua) Care Guide

One of the most peaceful triggerfish with a dark green-black body and a distinctive white or pink tail. Planktivorous in nature, making it less destructive than most triggers.

Overview

Melichthys vidua is a species in the family Balistidae. One of the most peaceful triggerfish with a dark green-black body and a distinctive white or pink tail. Planktivorous in nature, making it less destructive than most triggers. Can be kept in reef aquariums with caution, though it may eat ornamental shrimp.

Taxonomy

Family: Balistidae
Genus: Melichthys
Scientific name: Melichthys vidua
Other names: Pinktail Durgon
Origin: Indo-Pacific

Habitat

Melichthys vidua is a triggerfish of Indo-Pacific reef slopes and drop-offs, recognised by its pink-edged tail. It feeds on algae, detritus and small invertebrates; relatively less destructive than some triggers but still a risk to ornamental shrimp.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 400 L
Temperature: 24-27 °C
pH: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024-1.026
KH: 8-12 dKH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 20-25 cm
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Position in tank: middle
Compatible tank mates: Tangs, Wrasses, Large Angelfish
Avoid with: Other Triggerfish, Small Invertebrates

Reef compatibility

Generally classified as reef-safe with caution: may disturb other sessile invertebrates, sting neighbouring corals or prey on small ornamental shrimps, so placement and tankmates need consideration.

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-layer
Breeding difficulty: advanced