Pink Tail Triggerfish

Melichthys vidua

This attractive species is commonly known as the Pink Tail Triggerfish. It is a lime green over its entire body. Fine blue lines radiate from the eyes to the top of the head. The dorsal and pectoral fins are reddish with a thick black outline. The caudal fin has a white band near the peduncle. The remainder of the tail fin is reddish pink.

This species grows to nearly 14 inches and will require an aquarium of at least 75 gallons. This gentle species is actually reef compatible. They tend to ignore sessile invertebrates, but very large specimens may make meals of decorative shrimp.

This fish is a highly recommend aquarium species. Once it adjusts to aquarium life, it becomes tame and even friendly. In fact, some individuals will skim the surface on their side in order to receive a little pet from its caretaker! Its hardiness and calm disposition make it an excellent marine selection for beginning aquarists.

It resides peacefully with other calm fish larger than itself, or some more aggressive fish of smaller size. Its peaceful demeanor also prevents this fish from desires to rearrange the aquarium decor or dig holes in the substrate.