Niger Triggerfish
Odonus niger
Common Names: Redtooth Triggerfish, Niger Triggerfish
Place Of Origin: Australia, Fiji, Indo-Pacific Ocean , Sri Lanka
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Moderate Aggression
Reef Compatibility: Moderate Danger to Reef, Eats Coral, Eats Invertebrates
Level of Care: Easy
Minimum Size Aquarium: 180+
Maximum Size: 12 Inches
The Niger Triggerfish is one of the few Triggerfish that are typically kept in multiples within the same tank. This does not mean that they are passive in any way. They can still be very aggressive towards other fish, and smaller marine life such as shrimp and other invertebrates. Sometimes called Redtooth Triggerfish for the red teeth visible as they mature, this Triggerfish cannot be considered a reef-safe fish because it will aggressively rearrange the contents of the aquarium, more so than some of the other breeds of Triggerfish. In order to minimize the reconstruction efforts it is important to provide caves big enough for this 12-inch or larger adult to maneuver in and hide occasionally, typically an aquarium of 180 gallons or more is required.
To support the carnivore appetite, it is suggested to supply a healthy proportion of live or frozen feeder fish, shrimp, squid, and krill. The Odonus niger varies in shades of deep dark blue, purple, and shades of green. Often changing from day to day depending on the lighting and conditions of the environment. This is an easy fish to care for if presented with the proper conditions that replicate the native habitat of the Australian coast and surrounding Islands, Fiji and Sri Lanka. Once acclimated, the Niger Triggerfish are wonderful additions and contribute a mysterious element to the marine aquarium.
