Blue Throat Triggerfish (Female)

Also known as Gilded Triggerfish, Blue Throat Trigger

The female Blue Throat Triggerfish is a gorgeous and relatively peaceful triggerfish species featuring subtle blue and golden coloration with intricate scale patterns. Females lack the vibrant blue facial markings of males but display beautiful muted tones and elegant finnage. This species is one of the most reef-compatible triggers and exhibits calmer behavior than most triggerfish, making it an excellent choice for larger mixed aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Xanthichthys auromarginatus
• Common Names: Blue Throat Trigger, Gilded Trigger, Blue Chin Trigger
• Adult Size: Up to 9-10 inches (females typically smaller than males)
• Lifespan: 10-15 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive; calm for a triggerfish
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe with caution; one of the best triggers for reefs
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Intermediate; hardy and manageable

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Provide ample open swimming space with live rock structures featuring caves and overhangs for shelter. Appreciates strong water flow and excellent water quality. Less likely to rearrange decorations than other triggers but still secure rockwork properly.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Prefers stable, pristine conditions

Equipment Recommendations:

• High-quality filtration system
• Efficient protein skimmer
• Strong water circulation
• Secure tight-fitting lid (can jump)

These maintain excellent water quality for this active species.

Diet & Feeding

Female Blue Throat Triggerfish are carnivores with healthy appetites.

Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, carnivore pellets
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, krill, squid, clams, scallops, chopped seafood
• Hard-shelled Foods: Small snails, shrimp with shells, mussels (for tooth health)
• Variety: Rotate different protein sources regularly

Feeding Frequency: 1-2 times daily

Special Note: Requires occasional hard-shelled foods to maintain properly worn teeth. Readily accepts most prepared foods and is an enthusiastic eater.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Tankmates: Compatible with most semi-aggressive fish; peaceful for a trigger
• Pairs: Can be kept with male Blue Throat Triggers in large systems
• Reef Behavior: Generally ignores corals; may occasionally sample ornamental shrimp
• Peaceful Nature: One of the least aggressive triggerfish species available

Notes & Considerations

• One of the most reef-compatible triggerfish species available.
• Less colorful than males but still beautifully patterned with subtle gold and blue tones.
• Females are typically smaller and less aggressive than males.
• Can be kept in pairs with males if introduced together in large systems.
• Highly intelligent and recognizes its owner.
• Produces clicking sounds when startled or communicating.
• Much less likely to rearrange aquascaping than other triggers.
• Teeth grow continuously; they need hard-shelled foods periodically.
• Generally leaves corals completely alone unlike most triggerfish.
• May nip at small ornamental shrimp but less predatory than other species.
• Active swimmer that patrols the entire aquarium.
• Peaceful enough for larger community tanks with appropriate tankmates.
• Hardy and disease-resistant once established.
• Occasionally jumps when spooked; lid recommended.
• Becomes quite tame and may hand-feed with training.
• Excellent choice for those wanting triggerfish personality with minimal aggression.
• Often underrated compared to more colorful male specimens.
• Demonstrates interesting natural behaviors including rubbing on rocks to shed skin.

Why Choose a Quarantined Blue Throat Triggerfish (Female)?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, well-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and trained on diverse prepared foods before sale, providing the best foundation for long-term success with this beautiful and manageable species.