Aiptasia Eating Filefish (Acreichthys tomentosus)
Max Size: 3 1/2 inches
Diet: Omnivore
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: With Caution. May eat soft polyps
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
The Aiptasia eating Filefish, also referred to as the Bristletail Filefish, Matted Leatherjacket, Tomentosus Filefish, or Matted Filefish, exhibits a body adorned with a blend of green, brown, and tan hues. Although generally non-aggressive towards other fish, it may display aggression towards members of its own genus. Therefore, it is advisable to house this species in aquariums of at least 30 gallons or larger, devoid of small invertebrates.
In home aquariums, the Aiptasia eating Filefish is recognized for its consumption of Aiptasia anemones; however, it may also nip at soft and stony corals. To ensure a well-rounded diet, it is recommended to provide shaved shrimp, squid, scallop, mysis shrimp, freeze-dried krill soaked in a vitamin supplement, and frozen marine algae. Feeding the Matted Filefish small portions of food multiple times a day is optimal.
These fish have successfully reproduced in captivity, with males typically being larger than females. Distinguishing characteristics of the males include fine bristle-like hairs on each side of their body, specifically along the caudal peduncle or base of the tail.
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