IntermediatePeacefulNot Reef SafeIUCN: Least Concern
Tasseled Filefish
Chaetodermis penicilligera
Family: Monacanthidae · Filefish
Also known as: Prickly Leatherjacket, Leafy Filefish
(c) Glen Whisson, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
Max Size
12"
Min Tank
125 gal
Lifespan
5-8 years
Origin
Indo-Pacific, Eastern Indian Ocean
Diet
Omnivore
Swims
Middle
Did You Know?
- Their elaborate tassels can break off and regrow, similar to a lizard's tail
- They can change color slightly to better match their surroundings
- The 'file' in filefish refers to the rough, sandpaper-like texture of their skin, historically used to polish wood
About
The Tasseled Filefish is one of the most extraordinary-looking fish available in the marine aquarium trade. Its entire body is covered in elaborate, branching skin appendages (tassels) that give it an appearance remarkably similar to a clump of seaweed or algae. This incredible camouflage makes it virtually invisible among seagrass beds and algae-covered reefs.
Growing to about 12 inches, this is a large filefish that requires a spacious aquarium of at least 125 gallons. Despite their unusual appearance, they are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive community fish. However, they are not considered reef-safe as they may pick at corals, sponges, and other sessile invertebrates.
In captivity, Tasseled Filefish are moderately challenging to keep, as some specimens can be reluctant feeders initially. Once acclimated, they accept a variety of frozen and prepared foods. Their slow, deliberate swimming style and extraordinary appearance make them true conversation pieces in the marine aquarium.
Feeding & Diet
Omnivore
An omnivore that feeds on algae, small crustaceans, and tunicates. In captivity, offer frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, marine algae, spirulina, and small pellets. May be shy about feeding initially. Feed 2-3 times daily. Some specimens may pick at Aiptasia anemones.
Compatibility
peacefulslow-swimmercoral-nippercamouflage
Peaceful toward other fish but may pick at corals and invertebrates. Best kept with other gentle, non-competitive species in FOWLR setups. Their slow swimming and deliberate feeding means they can be outcompeted by fast, aggressive fish.
Check CompatibilityBreeding
Not bred in captivity
Filefish are demersal spawners that lay adhesive eggs on substrate. Captive breeding of this species has not been documented.
Special Requirements
- Requires calm tankmates — easily stressed by aggressive fish
- May be a reluctant feeder initially — patience is needed during acclimation
- Not reef-safe — will pick at corals and invertebrates
- Benefits from macroalgae or seagrass in the tank for natural camouflage behavior
Water Parameters
Temperature72–78°F
Specific Gravity1.02–1.025 sg
pH8.1–8.4
Alkalinity8–12 dKH
Coloration
browngreenmottledtasseled appendages
Tags
peacefulslow-swimmercoral-nippercamouflage
