Whitespotted Pygmy Filefish

The Whitespotted Pygmy Filefish is one of the smallest filefish species available in the marine aquarium trade, reaching a maximum size of only 3.1 inches. It features a compressed body with a warm brown to reddish-brown base color adorned with scattered white spots that give the species its common name. Males often display brighter coloration and may show enhanced patterning during courtship. This diminutive species is native to temperate and subtropical waters of the Western Pacific, primarily around Japan and Korea.

Despite its small size, the Whitespotted Pygmy Filefish has a bold and inquisitive personality. It actively explores its environment, picking at live rock and investigating every corner of the aquarium. In the wild, it inhabits rocky reefs, seaweed beds, and sheltered coastal areas where it feeds on small invertebrates, algae, and organic detritus. Its small size makes it well-suited for nano and small marine aquariums of 30 gallons or more.

This species carries a caution rating for reef compatibility because individual specimens may develop a taste for coral polyps, particularly soft corals and zoanthids. While some individuals ignore corals entirely, others may become persistent nippers. Monitoring behavior in reef systems is essential. The Whitespotted Pygmy Filefish is peaceful toward other fish and does well in community setups with other gentle species.