Trigger Compatibility

[JonMorton]

I have a quick question for all of you. I'm currently dealing with the "differing opinions" problem that you've probably all dealt with. I currently have a 60 gal tank, lots of caves, etc. I have a Blue Spotted Puffer (or a sharpnosed puffer) and a clown. I'm looking to get a Humu Humu Trigger but wanted to make sure that would be safe.

I've been hearing several different opinions.

Also, do you guys prefer the Assassi Picasso or Humu Humu Picasso? Are there any differences besides their looks, or is temperment involved also?

Thanks a lot for the help.

Jon

[leebca]

WELCOME TO REEFLAND!

I've personally found that the Picasso has a more congenial temperament -- but only relatively speaking. This fish is known to be quite aggressive and gets worse upon aging. The Assassi is worse in temperament -- it has bitten its owner trying to perform tank maintenance.

This trigger, however, will get fairly large whereas the Puffer will remain small. You don't mention the size nor type of Anemonefish you have. Regardless, as the Trigger gets settled, it will dominate the aquarium and as it grows larger it may turn intolerant to its less assertive tankmates. So I would say it would be safe in the beginning, and intolerable a few months to a year down the road. As these Triggers get larger, the Anemonefish may look more and more like a meal, and the Puffer will find it harder and harder to get its fair share of the food at feeding time.

The aquarium size is a bit of a concern. I would not want to see a Trigger in that sized aquarium that has grown to over 4 inches in length.