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Fish Guide |  |
Family: Monacanthidae (Filefishes)
Natural Range: Pacific Ocean
Depth: Unknown ft. Size: 12 in. Jumps: No Space: 50+ gal.
Reef Safe: No Care Level: Moderate Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Invertebrates
Natural History: The Tassled Filefish is associated with 'weedy' areas of coastal reefs. Its unusual body projections help it blend in with the sea grasses where it is found. It is often observed to swim head-down as it drifts among seaweeds hunting for benthic invertebrates.
Husbandry: The Tassled Filefish should be offered numerous hiding places in captivity. An aquarium with macroalgae is likely best for this species. This species is peaceful when juvenile, but often aggressive when adult, especially with other filefish. This fish should be moved with a container rather than a net. The Tassled Filefish is reported to nip at the tentacles of anemones but not corals. It will likely eat ornamental shrimp.
AKA: Prickly Leatherjacket, Tassled Leatherjacket