Aiptasia-Eating Filefish

The Aiptasia-Eating Filefish has gained enormous popularity in the reef aquarium hobby for one primary reason: its appetite for Aiptasia pest anemones. This small, unassuming filefish is one of the most effective biological controls for these troublesome invertebrates that plague many reef aquariums. Its mottled tan, brown, and green coloration provides effective camouflage among seagrasses and rubble in its natural habitat.

This species has a laterally compressed body with rough, sandpaper-like skin characteristic of filefish. A small dorsal spine can be erected as a defense mechanism. The Aiptasia-Eating Filefish is generally shy and reserved when first introduced, often hiding among rockwork until it becomes comfortable. Once acclimated, it becomes bolder and will actively hunt Aiptasia throughout the aquarium.

The primary caveat with this species is that individual behavior can vary significantly. While many specimens will eagerly consume Aiptasia, some may show little interest in them and instead develop a taste for coral polyps, particularly zoanthids and LPS corals. For this reason, the species carries a cautious reef compatibility rating. It is best introduced when young and hungry, and some aquarists keep it as a temporary resident solely for pest control before rehoming it once the Aiptasia population is eliminated.