Wedge-Tail Triggerfish (Rhinecanthus rectangulus)

Fish in the family Balistidae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.

Quick facts

Scientific nameRhinecanthus rectangulus

FamilyBalistidae

Also known asWedge-Tail Triggerfish

Care levelExpert

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentAggressive

Dietcarnivore

Adult size10 in

Minimum tank size180 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025

Feeding schedule1-2 times daily

Appearance

Wedge-tail triggerfish display a tan to olive body with blue and yellow facial markings, a characteristic blue-ringed eye, and a distinctive wedge-shaped tail. They are heavy-bodied with a deep, compressed profile typical of the Balistidae family.

Diet and feeding

Feed meaty foods including crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Offer mysis shrimp, chopped squid, and quality frozen marine preparations 1–2 times daily. They actively hunt live food and will consume small ornamental invertebrates.

Difficulty and care for the Wedge-Tail Triggerfish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial infections, Fungal diseases

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea to Hawaii, including the Great Barrier Reef and central Pacific islands.

Log Wedge-Tail Triggerfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Wedge-Tail Triggerfish alongside everything else in your reef.

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