Melichthys niger (Bloch, 1786)

Common and Scientific Names

The black triggerfish, also called black durgon (scientific name Melichthys niger, Bloch 1786), is known as Humuhumu'ele'ele in Hawaiian.

Body and Fin Appearance

It is a blimp-shaped triggerfish with bright white lines running along its dorsal and anal fins.

Distance Color Perception

From a distance, it appears completely black.

Close-Up Coloration

When inspected closely in good lighting, it can be seen to actually have mottled dark-blue/green coloration, often with orange toward the front of the head.

Color Change Capability

Black triggerfish are capable of changing color based on their surroundings.

Similar Species Confusion

This species should not be confused with its cousin, the Indian triggerfish or black-finned triggerfish (Melichthys indicus), which is often mistaken for the black triggerfish in the aquarium trade.

Indian Triggerfish Range and Resemblance

The Indian triggerfish has never been found near Hawaii, but bears a striking resemblance to the black triggerfish due to similar shape and coloration.

Overall Distribution

The black triggerfish has a circumtropical distribution.

Indo-Pacific Distribution Range

It occurs in Hawaii, extends up through Polynesia, westward to the East Indies and across the Indian Ocean.

Additional Distribution Areas

It is also found around the southern coast of Africa, and is common in the Indo Pacific and Red Sea.

Habitat and Depth Range

This species lives in open waters, shallows, and exposed reefs, at depths of 5–35 metres (15–115 feet).

Ascension Island Habitat Preference

In the Ascension Island region, it seems to prefer inland and shore areas, where it is unusually prolific.