---
title: Indian Triggerfish (Melichthys indicus)
scientific_name: Melichthys indicus
common_name: Indian Triggerfish
taxon: Triggerfishes
conservation_status: LC - Least Concern
published: 2024-01-01T22:38:41.157Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Indian Triggerfish, Melichthys indicus, Triggerfishes, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/triggerfishes/indian-triggerfish
---

# Indian Triggerfish (*Melichthys indicus*)

**Taxon:** Triggerfishes (*Balistidae*)  
**Conservation Status:** LC - Least Concern  


The Indian triggerfish (Melichthys indicus), commonly referred to as the black-finned triggerfish, exhibits a brown body and black fins with distinctive white lines at the base of the dorsal and anal fins. It is predominantly found throughout the Indian Ocean and can reach a maximum length of 25 cm (10 in).

In terms of diet, the Indian triggerfish primarily consumes hard-shelled mollusks and echinoderms, although some individuals may also feed on algae and zooplankton. While they exhibit aggression in protecting their eggs, they generally pose no threat otherwise. When it comes to keeping them as pets, Indian triggerfish are generally manageable, although certain individuals may display aggression towards other fish.

It is important to note that the Indian triggerfish should not be mistaken for the Hawaiian black triggerfish or black durgon (Melichthys niger), as this often occurs within the trade. Despite their similar shape and coloration, it is worth highlighting that the Indian triggerfish has never been documented near Hawaii.

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*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/triggerfishes/indian-triggerfish)*
*Updated: November 25, 2025*