Blue Throat Trigger: Female

Xanthichthys auromarginatus


(1 Reviews)

Blue Throat Trigger: Female

Blue Throat Trigger: Female

Xanthichthys auromarginatus


(1 Reviews)

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Care Facts

Size: 3.5-4.5 inches
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Safe: Monitor
Diet: Carnivore
Origin: Indian Ocean
Acclimation Time: 3+ hours
Coral Safe: Monitor
Invertebrate Safe: Monitor
Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons

The Blue Throat Trigger, Xanthichthys auromarginatus, also known as the Bluethroat Trigger, Blue Chin Trigger, or Gilded Trigger, features a greyish-brown body with light blue spotting. Males have  yellow edged fins and a characteristic blue throat or chin area. It thrives best in tanks of at least 125 gallons with plenty of live rockwork creating hiding places and places to swim freely. Sometimes, the Blue Throat Trigger can make an audible grunting sound. They will take a varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, fish, and clams. They can nip at corals and small inverts so take caution with tank mates. They are exemplar jumpers so please be sure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent escape. When introducing the Blue Throat Trigger to your tank it is often best to do so while it is a juvenile to allow it to acclimatize to the tank properly. Usually, males are more visually stunning than females. Pictured second is a female Blue Throat Trigger This species can be fun to watch as they will often pick up objects with their mouth and move them around the aquarium, but they will also pick up and move coral as well so they are not reef safe.


The Blue Throat Triggerfish: Popular for Aquarium Enthusiasts

The Blue Throat Triggerfish, scientifically known as Xanthichthys auromarginatus, is a popular choice for saltwater marine aquariums. This informative product description will provide hobbyists and potential buyers with essential information about keeping the Blue Throat Triggerfish.

Blue Throat Triggerfish Habitat

The Blue Throat Triggerfish is commonly found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They inhabit coral reefs, rocky substrates, and areas with abundant hiding spots. To ensure their well-being in captivity, it's essential to replicate this habitat within your aquarium.

Reef Compatibility of Blue Throat Triggerfish

Blue Throat Triggerfish are not considered reef-safe due to their natural foraging behavior. They may disrupt corals and invertebrates within the reef environment. As a result, it is advisable to keep them in a fish-only or fish-only-with-live-rock (FOWLR) setup.

Size and Lifespan of Blue Throat Triggerfish

In captivity, Blue Throat Triggerfish can grow up to 10 inches (25 cm) in length. They boast a relatively long lifespan, typically 10 to 15 years, when provided with proper care.

Diet of Blue Throat Triggerfish in Captivity

These triggerfish are omnivorous and have a varied diet. They readily accept high-quality marine pellets, frozen foods, and live or frozen seafood. Maintaining a balanced diet is essential to ensure the health and vibrancy of your Blue Throat Triggerfish.

Aquaculture and Availability of Blue Throat Triggerfish

While Blue Throat Triggerfish are not aquacultured, they are occasionally available to hobbyists through reputable suppliers and online retailers like Saltwaterfish.com as wild-caught specimens.

Compatibility of Blue Throat Triggerfish with Other Fish and Invertebrates

Blue Throat Triggerfish can be somewhat territorial and occasionally aggressive, especially when they feel threatened or while establishing their territory. Careful selection of tankmates is crucial to reduce potential conflicts. Suitable tankmates may include Foxface Rabbitfish, Clownfish, large angelfish, and certain tang species.

Sexual Dimorphism of Blue Throat Triggerfish

Blue Throat Triggerfish exhibit significant variation between males and females. The males are noted for the pronounced blue color under their throat.

Coloration Changes from Juvenile to Adult in Blue Throat Triggerfish

Juvenile Blue Throat Triggerfish often display striking colors, including vibrant blues and yellows. As they mature, their coloration becomes less vibrant, shifting towards a more subdued yet equally appealing appearance.

Temperament of Blue Throat Triggerfish

The Blue Throat Triggerfish is known for its territorial and sometimes aggressive nature. Providing adequate hiding spots and territories within the aquarium can help mitigate aggression and create a more balanced environment.

Tank Requirements for Blue Throat Triggerfish

To ensure the well-being of your Blue Throat Triggerfish, you will need an aquarium with a minimum capacity of 100 gallons (380 liters). These fish require ample swimming space, hiding spots, and the freedom to establish territories.

Water Conditions for Blue Throat Triggerfish

Maintaining stable water conditions is vital for the health of your Blue Throat Triggerfish. Here are the recommended parameters:

  • pH: 8.1 to 8.4
  • Salinity: 1.020 to 1.025
  • Water Temperature: 75 to 82°F (24 to 28°C)
  • Water Flow: Moderate to strong, replicating the natural current of their native habitat.

Common Names of Blue Throat Triggerfish

The Blue Throat Triggerfish is also known by various names, including the Yellow Margin Triggerfish and Blue-Throated Triggerfish.

Five Compatible Tank Mates for Blue Throat Triggerfish

  • Foxface Rabbitfish (Siganus vulpinus): Peaceful herbivores that add diversity and color to your aquarium while helping control algae.
  • Clownfish (Amphiprioninae): Known for their unique behaviors and vibrant colors, they make excellent tankmates.
  • Emperor Angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator): Ideal for larger tanks, these stunning angelfish can coexist with Blue Throat Triggerfish.
  • Powder Blue Tang (Acanthurus leucosternon): Elegant and suitable for larger saltwater setups.
  • Naso Tang (Naso lituratus): A beautiful tang species complementing the Blue Throat Triggerfish in larger aquariums.

Why Choose the Blue Throat Triggerfish from Saltwaterfish.com

Saltwaterfish.com is a reputable source for obtaining marine fish and invertebrates for your aquarium. They are known for their rigorous care and quarantine practices, ensuring that the fish they provide are healthy and disease-free. When you purchase a Blue Throat Triggerfish from Saltwaterfish.com, you can have confidence in the quality of your new marine addition, knowing that it will thrive in your aquarium.


Reviewed by: Lynn Adams on Nov. 27, 2023

Very happy with my blue throated female trigger She arrived very healthy and good looking. Put her right in with my male blue throat in one of my reef tanks. Been two weeks now, eating like a champ and becoming very social.


Reviewed by: Brian on March 20, 2017

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