Orange Spot Filefish - Oxymonacanthus longirostris
- In stock, ready to ship
- Backordered, shipping soon
The Orange Spot Filefish (Oxymonacanthus longirostris) is a striking reef fish known for its mint green body speckled with orange and a vivid orange face. This peaceful but highly specialized fish is an obligate coralivore, feeding almost exclusively on live coral, making it a challenging addition for experienced aquarists.
Common Name: Orange Spot Filefish
Scientific Name: Oxymonacanthus longirostris
Family: Monacanthidae
Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)
Temperament: Peaceful
Difficulty: Difficult
Reef Safe: No
Native Region: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, primarily inhabiting coral-rich reef flats and lagoons where it can graze on Acropora species and other branching corals.
Tank Size: Minimum of 50 gallons
Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
pH: 8.0–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.025
Substrate: Provide abundant live rock and healthy coral colonies for grazing; ensure stable water parameters.
• Feeding: Obligate coralivore—requires live Acropora or similar corals; may accept frozen foods if acclimated.
• Behavior: Peaceful but highly specialized; avoid housing with aggressive or overly active tankmates.
• Tankmates: Best kept with other peaceful reef inhabitants; avoid predatory fish that may harass the filefish.
• Acclimation: Introduce slowly and monitor feeding to ensure survival in captivity.