Pinktail Triggerfish

Pinktail Triggerfish

Melichthys vidua

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Pinktail Triggerfish (Melichthys vidua) is a vibrant marine fish known for its dark green to black body, translucent white anal and second dorsal fins, and a distinctive pink caudal fin. It inhabits shallow coral reefs throughout the Indo-Pacific, feeding omnivorously on algae, plankton, crustaceans, and small fish. This species can reach up to 40 cm in length and is generally found in loose groups, though males can be territorial during nesting.

Max Length 40 cm
Max Weight 2 kg
Lifespan 8 - 20 years
Habitat Coastal zone and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 70 m
Diet Omnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Small groups

Destinations to spot Pinktail Triggerfish

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Pinktail Triggerfish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Pinktail Triggerfish

Where can you see the Pinktail Triggerfish?

The Pinktail Triggerfish can be seen at 3 dive destinations in Indonesia, Egypt, and Maldives. The best spots include Gili Islands (Indonesia), Hurghada (Egypt), and South Ari Atoll (Maldives).

What is the best time to see the Pinktail Triggerfish?

The Pinktail Triggerfish can be seen all year round at Gili Islands and South Ari Atoll.

Where can you see the Pinktail Triggerfish in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Pinktail Triggerfish at Gili Islands.

Where can you see the Pinktail Triggerfish in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can see the Pinktail Triggerfish at Hurghada.

Where can you see the Pinktail Triggerfish in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Pinktail Triggerfish at South Ari Atoll.

How big does the Pinktail Triggerfish get?

The Pinktail Triggerfish can reach up to 40 cm in length and 2 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Pinktail Triggerfish live in?

The Pinktail Triggerfish is found in these habitats: coastal zone and coral reef.

How deep does the Pinktail Triggerfish live?

The Pinktail Triggerfish lives from the surface down to 70 m.

What does the Pinktail Triggerfish eat?

Eats both plant and animal matter, which lets it adapt its diet to whatever the habitat offers.

When is the Pinktail Triggerfish most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Pinktail Triggerfish live?

The Pinktail Triggerfish lives 8 to 20 years.

What is the conservation status of the Pinktail Triggerfish?

The Pinktail Triggerfish is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Pinktail Triggerfish. Spotted something that looks off?

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