More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 1500 litres / 396.26 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 29.0cm / 11.42inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with luck |
| Temperament | Might be aggressive towards other species |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Crosshatch Triggerfish (Xanthichthys mento) belongs to the Balistidae family, known for their strong jaws used for crushing rock, shells, or corals. Compared to other genera, this species is relatively peaceful, though individual behaviors can vary greatly. They have a distinctive personality, with some owners reporting teaching them tricks for rewards. These fish are known to rearrange rocks and sand, requiring secure placements in the aquarium.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable with care, the Crosshatch Triggerfish can be a threat to smaller fish and small crustaceans. They are known to bite and may exhibit a curious behavior of nibbling on rubber and plastics, necessitating caution in tank setup to prevent damage to aquarium items.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
Hardy in nature, these triggerfish require a spacious aquarium of at least 1500 liters due to their swimming habits. They thrive on a varied diet consisting of krill, shrimp, crabs, mussels, and algae-based foods. Regular feeding is crucial to prevent overgrown teeth, which may need grinding down if left unchecked.
Reef Suitability
Reef safe with luck, the Crosshatch Triggerfish typically feeds on zooplankton in the wild and tends to ignore most invertebrates and fish in a reef aquarium. However, caution is advised as these fish may pose a threat to smaller tank mates, requiring adequate hiding spots within live rocks.
Aquarium Setup
A well-prepared aquarium for Crosshatch Triggerfish includes ample hiding places and sturdy rock formations to prevent toppling. They thrive in salinity levels ranging from 1.020 to 1.025, with a pH of 8.1-8.4 and a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C. Maintaining a stable environment with a hardness level between 8-12 is crucial for their well-being.
Behaviour
Known for their grunting sounds when threatened, Crosshatch Triggerfish exhibit a fun and interesting personality. They may live in pairs and enjoy rearranging their environment, displaying a playful nature towards their surroundings.
Feeding and Diet
These fish require a varied diet, including larger crustaceans, invertebrates, and small crustaceans like krill and mysis. Providing a diversified feeding regimen is essential to ensure their nutritional needs are met.
Dimorphism
Crosshatch Triggerfish can be bred in captivity, offering aquarists the opportunity to obtain captive-bred specimens for their tanks. Their breeding behaviors, including courtship and spawning, can be observed in a well-maintained aquarium environment.
Habitat and Distribution
Natively found in Australia, Japan, Indonesia, East Pacific, and Central/West Pacific regions, Crosshatch Triggerfish inhabit shallow coastal waters with rocky substrates. They exhibit territorial behaviors in the wild and require ample swimming space in captivity to mimic their natural habitat.