Tassle Filefish
Chaetodermis pencilligerus
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Suggested Tank
125+ gallons
Max Size
12 inches
Difficulty
Temperament
Description
A superbly camouflaged filefish with a cream-to-tan body crossed by dark broken stripes and covered in shaggy, weed-like dermal appendages that break up its outline among algae and rubble. It is slow-moving and generally peaceful with unrelated fish, but it is a deliberate picker that will sample coral polyps, clam mantles, and small ornamental crustaceans. Give it a large, mature tank with moderate flow, weedy/rocky shelter, calm tankmates, and several small feedings a day, as shy new arrivals often refuse food at first.
Reef Safe
No
Environment
This species requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. The water should be kept at a stable temperature between 72-78°F, with a pH of 8.1-8.4 and specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.
Behavior
Tassle Filefish are generally solitary and can be shy, often hiding among rocks and corals. They are known for their slow, deliberate swimming style and can be territorial, especially in smaller tanks.
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Tassle Filefish
Chaetodermis pencilligerus
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