Niger Triggerfish

The Niger Triggerfish is a uniquely beautiful species that displays an iridescent dark blue to purple body that can shift in hue depending on lighting conditions, often revealing green, teal, or indigo tones. Its most distinctive feature is its red-orange teeth, visible when the fish opens its mouth, which give rise to its alternate common name. It also features a deeply forked, lyrate tail that is unusual among triggerfish and adds to its graceful swimming appearance.

This species is considered one of the more docile triggerfish, particularly when young, though it can become territorial and semi-aggressive as it matures. It is an active, intelligent fish that quickly recognizes its keeper and often develops an interactive personality. Niger Triggerfish are remarkably hardy and resistant to common marine diseases, making them a low-maintenance choice for aquarists with appropriate tank space.

While the Niger Triggerfish is less destructive than many triggerfish species, it is not reef-safe and will consume ornamental invertebrates including shrimp, crabs, snails, urchins, and may damage corals. It is best suited for fish-only or fish-only-with-live-rock setups. In these environments, it thrives alongside other robust, similarly-sized fish. A tight-fitting lid is absolutely essential, as this species is a notorious jumper.