Matted Filefish

The matted filefish, Acreichthys tomentosus, is also called the bristletail or Aiptasia-eating filefish. Its mottled green, tan and brown camouflage can change with its surroundings, reflecting its natural association with shallow seagrass habitats.

Provide shelter and calm areas where this deliberate swimmer can feed without being crowded. Offer a varied aquarium diet regularly. Aiptasia is not its only food, and buying the fish does not guarantee that an individual will eat unwanted anemones or begin doing so immediately.

Some individuals nip both hard and soft corals. Assess that risk before placing one among valuable reef livestock, and keep a practical option for separation. Peaceful fish are preferable to aggressive neighbours that compete relentlessly for food or chase a slow-moving resident.