Filefish
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/38009580@N05">Lakshmi Sawitri</a> (CC BY 2.0)
NameFilefish
Scientific NameAcreichthys tomentosus
Common NamesBristletail Filefish, Aiptasia Filefish, Matted Filefish
FamilyMonacanthidae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Bali, Western Pacific Ocean
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)30
Max Size (Inches)4.5
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesLarger Wrasses, Gobies, Blennies, Lionfish (if larger than the filefish), Puffers (non-fin nipping species), Hawkfish
Description
The Bristletail Filefish is a master of camouflage, featuring a mottled body covered in small bristles that allow it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. It is highly valued in the aquarium hobby for its natural ability to consume nuisance Aiptasia anemones. While generally peaceful, it can be semi-aggressive towards other filefish or very small, docile tankmates.
