Indian Black Triggerfish

The Indian Black Triggerfish (Melichthys indicus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking solid black coloration, oval body shape, and robust size.

Males typically display slightly deeper body tones and more pronounced dorsal fin spines, while females and juveniles are generally smaller with slightly lighter coloration. They reach about 12–14 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 125 gallons. Their habitat should include a sandbed, plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding spots, and ample open swimming space, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temperature ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since triggerfish are prone to jumping. Their diet should consist of mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, high-quality pellets, and some algae, and with proper care, this fish makes a striking and dynamic addition to a large marine aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.