The Black Durgon (Melichthys niger) is a striking triggerfish known for its deep black body with subtle iridescent blue and green hues, often highlighted by a faint neon blue outline along its dorsal and anal fins. Native to tropical and subtropical waters, this fish is commonly found in the Atlantic, Indo-Pacific, and Caribbean reefs.
Aquarium Care:
- Tank Size: Minimum 180 gallons due to its active swimming behavior.
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive; may be territorial, especially with smaller fish and invertebrates.
- Diet: Carnivorous; thrives on a varied diet of mollusks, crustaceans, squid, and high-quality marine pellets.
- Reef Compatibility: Not reef-safe; may nip at corals and invertebrates.
- Water Parameters: Temperature: 74-82°F, pH: 8.1-8.4, Salinity: 1.023-1.025.
- Special Care: Requires plenty of swimming space, strong filtration, and secure rock structures for hiding.
The Black Durgon is a captivating fish but best suited for large, fish-only marine aquariums due to its size, diet, and territorial nature.