Black Indian Trigger

Last time this was in stock, it was £79.00

10-12cm

Black Indian Trigger, Melichthys indicus

  • Common Name: Black Indian Trigger
  • Latin Name: Melichthys indicus
  • Distribution: The Black Indian Trigger, Melichthys indicus, is naturally found in the Indo-Pacific region. It inhabits the coastlines of East Africa, the Maldives, the Red Sea, and the coastal areas of India and Sri Lanka. The original wild fish come from their natural range in the Indo-Pacific.
  • Max Size: Around 12 inches (30 cm).
  • Temperature Range: Between 77°F and 82°F (25°C to 28°C).
  • pH Range: The preferred pH range for the Black Indian Trigger is between 8.1 and 8.4.
  • KH Range: The KH (carbonate hardness) range suitable for this species is around 8-12 dKH.
  • Care Level: The Black Indian Trigger requires moderate care and is considered slightly delicate.
  • Lighting Preference: It does well with moderate to high lighting levels in the aquarium.
  • Preferred Food: The Black Indian Trigger is an omnivorous species that feeds on a variety of meaty foods, such as small crustaceans, mollusks, and fish, as well as algae and plant matter.
  • Behaviour: Black Indian Triggers are known for their unique swimming motion and lively behaviour. They exhibit a puppy-like character and are considered intelligent.
  • Suitable for Reef Tanks: While the Black Indian Trigger may be compatible with some reef tank setups, caution should be exercised as they may nip at or disturb corals and other invertebrates. It is best to choose tank mates carefully if keeping them in a reef tank.
  • Discoverer: The Black Indian Trigger was not named after a specific discoverer.
  • Interesting Facts:
  • It belongs to the Balistidae family, which includes various triggerfish species known for their unique body shapes and behaviours.
  • They possess a modified dorsal fin known as a “trigger” that can be erected and locked into place, giving them their common name.

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DRY GOODS

Aquarium plants can be shipped under the same shipping rules as dry goods.

Free shipping on orders over £50 (may exclude some aquariums)  Geographical restrictions may apply

LIVESTOCK = Fish, Critters and Corals

Minimum order value £30Delivery charge £19.99. Delivery days Are Varied At The Moment.  We will contact you to confirm your delivery day. Some geographical restrictions apply See shipping

Aquarium Plants: Are shipped the same as and can be mixed with Dry goods *Free shipping on orders over £50 or £6.99 for orders under £50. Some geographical restrictions may apply.

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The Black Indian Trigger, scientifically known as Melichthys indicus, can reach a maximum size of around 12 inches (30 cm). It has a distinctive appearance with a laterally compressed body and a slender, pointed snout. The fish is predominantly black in colour, with a yellow dots and dashes pattern.

Behaviour

The Black Indian Trigger exhibits an intriguing mix of puppy-like character and intelligence. It possesses a mesmerizing swimming motion thanks to the shape and undulation of their fins. These fish gracefully navigate through the water. These fish are known for their curious and inquisitive nature, often interacting with their environment and showing a range of captivating behaviours.

Taxonomy

The Black Indian Trigger belongs to the family Balistidae, which includes various triggerfish species. Its closest relatives within the genus Melichthys include the Titan Triggerfish (Melichthys niger) and the Redtail Triggerfish (Melichthys vidua). The genus name “Melichthys” is derived from the Greek words “melas” meaning black and “ichthys” meaning fish, highlighting the fish’s prominent black colouration.

Natural Habitat

The Black Indian Trigger inhabits coral reefs and rocky areas in its natural habitat. It can be found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Maldives, the Red Sea, and the coastlines of India and Sri Lanka. These areas provide the fish with an abundance of hiding places, crevices, and coral formations that it seeks for protection and foraging.

Keeping Black Indian Trigger Healthy

To ensure the health and well-being of the Black Indian Trigger, it is crucial to maintain appropriate tank conditions. This species requires a tank with a minimum capacity of 75 gallons (284 litres) to accommodate its active swimming habits. Water temperature should range from 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C), with a specific gravity of 1.020 to 1.025. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential for maintaining optimal water quality.

Special Requirements and Feeding

The Black Indian Trigger has specific dietary requirements and should be offered a varied diet consisting of meaty foods. This can include shrimp, fish, squid, and other protein-rich options. Providing a balanced diet is vital for the fish’s overall health and vitality.

How Many Should I Keep?

It is recommended to keep a single Black Indian Trigger in the aquarium due to its territorial nature and potential aggression towards conspecifics or similar species.

Lighting Preference

The Black Indian Trigger does not have any specific lighting preferences. However, providing a well-lit aquarium with appropriate spectrum lighting can enhance the overall visual appeal of the tank.

Suitable Tank Mates

When selecting tank mates for the Black Indian Trigger, it is essential to choose larger and more robust species. Smaller, peaceful fish may become targets of aggression. It is generally not advisable to keep the Black Indian Trigger with other triggerfish or similar aggressive species.


Reproduction in the Wild

During the reproduction process, the Black Indian Trigger performs a unique courtship behaviour known as the “wiggle dance.” This dance involves rapid shaking movements of its body, which are believed to attract potential mates. The fish swims in a zigzag pattern while vigorously shaking its body, creating a visual display to signal its readiness to reproduce.

Breeding Melichthys indicus

    1. Set Up:

    To encourage breeding, a spacious aquarium with suitable hiding places and crevices should be provided. The water temperature should be maintained between 77°F and 82°F (25°C to 28°C).

    1. Courtship/Spawning:

    Triggerfish are known to form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. The courtship behaviour involves the male actively pursuing the female, displaying vibrant colours and performing courtship rituals such as the wiggle dance. Once the female accepts the male’s advances, they engage in spawning.

    1. Rearing:

    Triggerfish lay adhesive eggs on a flat surface, typically within a crevice or on the substrate. The male guards and aerates the eggs, while the female may remain nearby. After hatching, the fry should be provided with appropriate nutrition, such as small live or frozen foods.

Sexual Dimorphism

The Black Indian Trigger does not exhibit significant sexual dimorphism, making it challenging to visually differentiate between males and females based on physical characteristics alone.

Distribution

The Black Indian Trigger, Melichthys indicus, is naturally found in the Indo-Pacific region. Its distribution extends from the coastlines of East Africa to the Maldives, the Red Sea, and the coastal areas of India and Sri Lanka. While some individuals may be available as captive-bred specimens, the original wild fish come from their natural range in the Indo-Pacific.

Summary

The Black Indian Trigger, scientifically known as Melichthys indicus, is a captivating fish with its distinct appearance and mesmerizing swimming motion. Known for their puppy-like character and intelligence, these fish add a unique charm to the aquarium. While their care level may require some attention, they can thrive in a well-maintained tank with appropriate tank mates and a balanced diet. Reproduction in the wild involves the fascinating wiggle dance courtship behaviour. Breeding the species in captivity can be challenging, but providing the right setup and conditions may increase the chances of success. The Black Indian Trigger is a remarkable fish that brings beauty and personality to any aquarium setting.

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Dry Goods Delivery.

The store has provided information regarding their order dispatch and estimated delivery times. Here are the key details:

  1. Dispatch Timeframe: Orders placed before 2pm will be dispatched on the same day. Orders placed after 2pm will be dispatched on the next working day.
  2. Delivery Date and Time Guarantee: While the store aims to dispatch orders promptly, they cannot guarantee a specific delivery date and time. As the delivery process relies on couriers, there may be factors beyond their control that could affect the delivery timeframe.
  3. 1st Class Mail: For orders sent via 1st Class mail, the aim is to have them delivered on the next working day after dispatch.
  4. 2nd Class Mail: Orders sent via 2nd Class mail typically take approximately 2-3 working days for delivery after dispatch.
  5. APC Next Day Delivery: APC Next Day delivery is available for UK mainland postcodes. It is usually delivered on the next working day after dispatch. However, please note that items being delivered to more remote areas may require additional time for delivery.

It’s important to keep in mind that while the store strives to provide efficient delivery services, unforeseen circumstances or external factors could potentially impact delivery times. For further details or specific inquiries about delivery, customers should refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Livestock Delivery.

The store maintains specific policies regarding the delivery of livestock. Here are the key points:

  1. Licensed Livestock Courier: The store exclusively uses a licensed livestock courier for shipping fish and coral. This approach is chosen to ensure responsible and ethical transportation of the livestock.
  2. Livestock Shipping Fee: The livestock shipping fee charged to customers of £19.99 does not cover the true cost, and therefore, there is a minimum spend requirement of £30.00 before the option for livestock shipping becomes available.
  3. Pre-Arranged Delivery: The store never ships livestock without first arranging a suitable delivery day. Before dispatching the livestock, the store must confirm the agreed-upon delivery day with the customer.
  4. Saturday Delivery Confirmation: Customers who choose Saturday delivery must have their availability confirmed for the upcoming Saturday before the store sends out the livestock. This confirmation ensures that the livestock can be received promptly.
  5. Failure to wait for livestock: Not waiting for livestock, even if there is a reasonable delay, or cancelling an order after it has been dispatched will lead to you incurring charges for an emergency return to the base. Additionally, any losses of livestock will also be charged to you. Please be aware that the items you are ordering are living creatures – livestock. We kindly ask that you refrain from ordering livestock if you are unable to accommodate the possibility of a delayed delivery.

    These terms and conditions are a fundamental aspect of our policy. Our primary goal is to dissuade individuals who could react negatively to a delayed delivery and subsequently request order cancellations. It is of utmost importance to underscore that your order pertains to living creatures, not mere inanimate objects. In the event of an occasional delay, it is crucial that you respond in a rational and responsible manner, taking into account the welfare of the livestock. We kindly request that you refrain from placing an order for livestock if you tend to react strongly to such situations. By proceeding with the order of livestock, you indicate your acceptance and agreement to abide by these specified terms and conditions.

  6. Signature Requirement: Livestock deliveries require a signature upon receipt and cannot be left in a safe location. This precaution ensures proper handling and the well-being of the livestock.
  7. Geographic Restrictions: The courier has strict geographic restrictions for livestock deliveries. Unfortunately, deliveries to Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man, Isles of Scilly, Channel Islands, and certain Scottish offshore postcodes may not be possible. Customers are encouraged to contact the store via email to confirm if livestock delivery is available in their area.
  8. Minimum Order Value and Order Cancellations: The store has a minimum order value of £30 for livestock shipping. Additionally, the store reserves the right to cancel orders that are deemed high-risk or involve a high number of single tropical freshwater fish species.

It is essential for customers to familiarize themselves with these policies before making a purchase. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or reach out to the store directly for clarification.

Livestock Geographical Exemptions.

The store has specific geographical exemptions for livestock deliveries. Here is a list of the areas and postcodes where livestock delivery is not available:

  1. Islands: Livestock cannot be delivered to the Shetlands, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man.
  2. Postcodes: Livestock delivery is not available to the following postcodes:
  • AB30 to AB39, AB41 to AB45, AB51 to AB56
  • DD8 to DD10
  • BT all
  • DG3 to DG9, DG12 to DG14
  • KA18 to KA19, KA26, KA29 to KA30
  • HS all
  • IM all
  • JE all
  • ZE all
  • KW15 to KW17
  • TD9
  • FK17 to FK21
  • GY all
  • KA26, to KA28
  • PA20 to PA38, PA41 to PA49, PA60 to PA61, PA76 to PA78
  • TR21, to TR25
  • PH3 to PH26, PH30 to PH44
  • IV all

Customers residing in these areas should be aware that livestock delivery is not available to their location.

We can ship livestock to the Isle of Wight, this area is subject to a surcharge.

For further information or specific inquiries about livestock delivery to a particular area, customers are advised to contact the store directly for clarification.

Cancellation.

According to the store’s policy, customers have the right to cancel an order within 14 working days of receiving the goods. To initiate the cancellation, the goods must be returned to the store in new and unused condition, adhering to their Returns Policy.

Important points regarding the return process are as follows:

  1. Return Condition: The goods must be returned in new and unused condition, as originally received. It is important to ensure that the goods are in the same condition as when they were sent out.
  2. Return Timeframe: The goods must be received by the store within 21 days of notifying them about the cancellation. During this time, customers are responsible for any loss or damage that may occur during the return shipping process.
  3. Refund Process: Once the store receives the goods in new and unused condition, they will initiate the refund process. The purchase price will be refunded to the customer.
  4. Return Condition Inspection: If the returned goods arrive in a condition that is less than what they were sent out in, the store reserves the right to return the goods to the customer, and no refund will be processed.

It is essential for customers to carefully review the store’s Returns Policy and follow the specified procedures to ensure a smooth and successful return and refund process. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Returns.

According to the store’s return policy, the following guidelines should be followed for returning goods:

  1. Use Returns Form: Customers need to use the store’s provided returns form to initiate the return process. This form helps the store acknowledge that the goods are being sent back.
  2. Return for Testing: If the goods are being returned for testing, the customer is responsible for covering the return shipping expenses.
  3. Refund of Postage Fees: The store will only refund postage fees if the order arrives damaged or becomes faulty within the first 4 weeks of purchase. Proof of posting is important, and customers should ensure the goods are well-packed and obtain proof of posting as the goods remain their responsibility until received by the store.
  4. Refund of Postage Costs for Replacement: If goods are being returned within 7 days of purchase under the Replacement Policy, the store can refund postage costs. However, the customer needs to agree on a delivery service with the store in advance, and only standard or tracked shipping fees will be refunded. The store cannot refund the cost of any special delivery service.
  5. Non-Refundable Postage: Postage costs for goods returned for any other reason than those mentioned above are non-refundable. The store reserves the right to deduct the original postage cost from any applicable refund.
  6. Mistaken Purchases: If a customer has made a mistake in their purchase, they need to return the goods to the store. The customer is responsible for the return shipping costs in such cases.

It is important for customers to carefully follow the store’s return procedures and terms and conditions. For further details or specific inquiries, customers should refer to the store’s website or contact the store directly.

Replacements

If customers receive faulty goods, the following guidelines apply according to the store’s policy:

  1. Notification of Faulty Goods: Customers must notify the store within 7 working days if they receive faulty goods. This notification should be made as soon as possible.
  2. Replacement Parts: If possible, the store will dispatch replacement parts for the faulty goods.
  3. Return of Goods: If replacement parts are not possible, the store may request customers to return the faulty goods in accordance with their Returns Policy. The specific return procedures and conditions should be followed.
  4. Verification of Damage: Once the store receives the returned goods, they will verify the damage. If the damage is confirmed, the store will supply the required replacements.
  5. Return Postage Costs: If the goods returned to the store are found to be in good working order, the store is not able to refund the return postage costs. Additionally, the store reserves the right to deduct their original postage cost from any applicable refund.
  6. Consequential Loss or Damage: The store cannot take responsibility for any consequential loss or damage that arises directly or indirectly from the goods supplied.

Customers should carefully review and adhere to the store’s Returns Policy and procedures for returning faulty goods. For further clarification or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Manufacturer’s Guarantees

The store works in collaboration with manufacturers to ensure that their guarantees are honored, and they make their best efforts to resolve issues within the warranty period. The following guidelines apply to refunds and replacements:

  1. Postage Costs under Manufacturer’s Guarantee: Postage costs can only be refunded if the goods are returned to the store within 7 days of the original purchase, as per the manufacturer’s guarantee.
  2. Refund of Postage Costs for Faulty Goods: The store will refund postage costs for guarantee/warranty returns only if the product becomes faulty within the first 4 weeks of receipt.
  3. Replacements with Manufacturer Authorization: Replacements, whether parts or goods, can only be offered when authorized by the manufacturer. Customers should contact the store for further guidance in such cases.
  4. Prior Approval for Returns: Goods should not be returned to the store without prior approval. Customers need to contact the store and obtain approval before returning any items.
  5. Replacement of Glass or Ceramic Items: Glass or ceramic items can only be replaced if the store is notified within 48 hours of receiving the delivery.
  6. Replacement of Glass Bulbs/Tubes: Glass bulbs or tubes can only be replaced if they become faulty within 14 days.

Customers should note and adhere to these guidelines to ensure a smooth and efficient resolution of any issues with their purchased items. For specific inquiries or further information, customers are advised to refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Breakages

According to the store’s policy, customers have the following responsibilities regarding breakages:

  1. Checking Goods on Arrival: It is the customer’s responsibility to thoroughly check the goods upon arrival for any damage. This should be done before signing for the parcel. If the parcel appears damaged, it is advised not to sign for it.
  2. Reporting Breakages: Any breakages or damages must be reported to the store within 48 hours of receiving the goods. It is important to promptly notify the store to initiate the resolution process.

By carefully inspecting the goods upon arrival and reporting any breakages within the specified timeframe, customers can ensure that appropriate actions are taken to address the issue. For specific instructions on reporting breakages or further information, customers should refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.