Matted (Aiptasia Eating) Filefish - Acreichthys tomentosus
- Low stock - 1 item left
- Backordered, shipping soon
The Matted Filefish (Acreichthys tomentosus), also known as the Aiptasia-Eating Filefish or Bristletail Filefish, is highly valued for its natural propensity to consume pest Aiptasia anemones. This adaptable species is an effective biological control option and displays unique, camouflaging patterns that change with mood and environment.
Common Name: Matted Filefish (Aiptasia-Eating Filefish, Bristletail Filefish)
Scientific Name: Acreichthys tomentosus
Family: Monacanthidae
Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Difficulty: Moderate
Reef Safe: With caution
Native Region: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, often inhabiting seagrass beds, rubble zones, and shallow reef edges where they use camouflage to blend into their surroundings.
Tank Size: Minimum of 30 gallons
Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
pH: 8.0–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.025
Substrate: Live rock with crevices for hiding; provide open swimming areas and stable aquascaping.
• Aiptasia Control: Known for consuming Aiptasia, though individual feeding behavior varies—some may ignore them, while others clear infestations quickly.
• Reef Consideration: May nip soft corals, LPS polyps, and some invertebrates once Aiptasia is gone; monitor closely in reef systems.
• Diet: Omnivorous—feed a mix of mysis, brine shrimp, marine pellets, and finely chopped seafood; offer frequent small meals.
• Behavior: Curious and adaptive; may change color patterns based on stress, environment, or mood.
• Tankmates: Generally compatible with peaceful to moderately aggressive species; avoid housing with very aggressive tankmates.
