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About Orangelined Triggerfish

The Orangelined Triggerfish is a spectacular and robust marine predator recognised for its dark green to brown body covered in vivid orange-yellow lines and spots. Its bold colouration and powerful build make it an impressive feature fish for large marine aquariums.

Also known as the Undulated Triggerfish, it is one of the more aggressive triggerfish species. It is highly intelligent, curious and extremely confident, but its temperament means it needs to be housed carefully with appropriately sized tank mates.

Orangelined Triggerfish are powerful fish that can rearrange rockwork and may chew or move aquarium decorations. A large aquarium with substantial rockwork, strong filtration and plenty of swimming space is essential.

They are carnivorous predators and readily accept a varied diet of prawns, squid, mussels, krill, chopped seafood and quality marine pellets. Hard-shelled foods are also beneficial for helping wear down their continuously growing teeth.

They are not reef safe. They may eat ornamental shrimp, crabs, snails, starfish and other invertebrates, and can damage or move corals while rearranging the aquarium.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Balistapus undulatus
Common Name: Orangelined Triggerfish / Undulated Triggerfish
Family: Balistidae
Type: Marine Fish / Triggerfish / Predator
Adult Size: Approximately 30 cm
Temperament: Aggressive / Highly Territorial
Care Level: Advanced
Minimum Aquarium: 500 L+
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 8.0–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
Diet: Carnivore
Tank Level: All Levels
Reef Safe: No
Suitable For: Large fish-only aquariums and predator systems

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Orangelined Triggerfish reef safe?

No. They are not considered reef safe. They can prey on ornamental invertebrates and may damage corals and other aquarium inhabitants.

How big does an Orangelined Triggerfish get?

They can reach approximately 30 cm, so substantial aquarium space is required.

Are Orangelined Triggerfish aggressive?

Yes. They are considered one of the more aggressive triggerfish species and can become highly territorial as they mature.

What do Orangelined Triggerfish eat?

They are carnivores and should receive a varied diet including prawns, squid, mussels, krill, chopped seafood and quality marine pellets.

Can Orangelined Triggerfish live with other fish?

They can be kept with large, robust tank mates, but compatibility is not guaranteed. Avoid small, timid or peaceful fish that may be bullied or eaten.

Common Mistakes

Keeping one in a reef aquarium
Their predatory behaviour makes them unsuitable for most coral and invertebrate displays.

Underestimating their aggression
They can become extremely territorial and should not be treated like a peaceful community fish.

Keeping small tank mates
Small fish, shrimp and other invertebrates can become prey.

Using inadequate rockwork
They are powerful fish capable of moving rockwork and decorations. Structures should be stable and securely positioned.

Not offering hard foods
Their teeth continue growing and benefit from appropriate hard-shelled foods.

Using an undersized aquarium
Their adult size, activity level and territorial behaviour require a large, robust system.