Matted Filefish (Aiptasia Eater)

Scientific Name: Acreichthys tomentosus
Family: Monacanthidae
Origin: Indo-Pacific Ocean
Care Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful – Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatibility: Caution with caution
Diet: Carnivore/Omnivore (small crustaceans, zooplankton, frozen foods, some algae)
Minimum Tank Size: 200 liters
Maximum Size: 10–12 cm
Temperature: 24–27°C
Salinity: 1.023–1.025 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4

The Matted Filefish is a small filefish species noted for its soft-textured appearance and camouflage ability. It tends to change its color and patterns according to its surroundings and usually moves by hiding among corals.

In its natural habitat, it lives in reefs, lagoons, and coral areas.

In the aquarium, it is especially known for consuming Aiptasia anemones.

Points to Consider:

• May nip at some soft corals and polyps.
• Requires a reef setup with hiding places
• May be a picky eater under stress