Exception to the rules?

[Iceburg98]

Just wondering if there were any "reef-safe" triggers or puffers out there? I've heard of one reef-safe trigger, but can't remember which one it was. Also, i guess puffers are "technically" reef-safe, since as far as i know, they won't eat corals, but they are rather clumsy and can knock corals over.

I just love the way these types of fish look, and was hoping there was one or two types that would work in a reef setting.

 

[mihkaail]

Hi there,

Agreed, triggers are nice fish and so are some puffers.

Just on a side note, my lfs had a 2" clown trigger in a reef tank and it didnt eat anything. But then again i dont think that tank had any shrimp in it. Lucky i guess, i wont trust the same individual in my coral tanks.

Ive heard that Xanthichthys are safe reef dwellers, minus small shrimp (sexys, peppermints), crabs (pom pom, anemone) and urchins. Supposedly wouldnt harm cleaner shrimp (get the largest possible, just in case).

Here's a link to that article about them:
http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2005- ... /index.htm

Still, although seemingly quite a good idea, these guys will harrass other fish, so dont go with anything close to their size. Even similarly sized angels would be bossed over. Also, bear in mind they get to 8-10", often larger; are active fish and thus need a good sized tank.

Not much experience with puffers though, unless you count boxfish as part of that heading. Had a baby cube-like cowfish in my prop tank/sump. He was so cute, ate like a pig, but never bothered any of my prop stuff (mainly shrooms, leathers, softies) but i dunno if theyd eat sps polyps, they seem very tempting to many things, esp angels.

Hope this helps.