Filefish

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT
fast facts

About Filefish

Group
Saltwater
Size
Large
Temperament
Non-aggressive
Aquarium Size
Large (55 gal)
Swimming Region
All
Fish Water Condition
Suitable Tank Mates
Anthias, Basslets, Batfish, Clownfish, Gobies, Hogfish and Tangs
Difficulty Of Care
Weekly care
ADVERTISEMENT

Filefish General description

Also known as foolfish, leatherjackets and shingles, filefish are a curious species of saltwater fish closely related to the triggerfish. They are characterized by their rhomboid shaped bodies, thick, sandpaper-like skin and relatively small, fleshy fins. Filefish also have a long, retractable spine on the base of their head which is often used to lock themselves in place inside caves and crevices, making it harder for predators to fish them out. They are an extremely peaceful, shy species of fish and are also quite hardy in nature. They are excellent choices for most beginner aquarists.

Also known as foolfish, leatherjackets and shingles, filefish are a curious species of saltwater fish closely related to the triggerfish.

Origins

Filefishes originate from the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans.

Color

Filefishes come in an array of vibrant colors ranging from red, green, yellow, orange, grey, black and white.

Maintenance and care

ADVERTISEMENT

Filefishes are a fairly shy species of fish and should be housed in aquariums with plenty of hiding places. Their small fins also make it an extremely slow swimmer and in the wild they are often seen floating head-down amongst seaweed. Filefish are extremely peaceful in nature and make excellent additions to most marine community aquariums. They are also rarely ever aggressive to members of their own species and can be kept in large groups, provided that they are housed in sufficiently large aquariums. Filefish should not be kept with large, overly aggressive tank mates that can harass them and stress them out.

Filefish also feed on live coral and should not be kept in reef tanks and with small species of invertebrates.

Feeding

Filefish will readily accept a variety of meaty and vegetable based foods. They can be fed on a diet that includes mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill and dried seaweed sheets. It is recommended that they be fed at least three times a day.

Filefish are a fairly shy species of fish and should be housed in aquariums with plenty of hiding places.

Breeding

There are reports of filefish being bred successfully in home aquariums. Although the specific breeding habits of the fish will vary depending on their sub-species, most species are nest-building egg-layers. The male of the species will build a nest on the aquarium bottom and will guard the eggs and fry.

Aquarium varieties

Colored Filefishes, Tassle Filefishes, Orange Spotted Filefishes, Red Tail Filefishes, Mimic Filefishes, etc.

Photo credit: Richard Ling/Flickr

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

10 Best Belly Bands

We are bringing you our list of the 10 best belly bands on the market – they are specifically designed to contain urine in male dogs, and work as a unique form of dog diapers.

6 Budget-Friendly Ways to Bond With Your Dog

You can''t buy your dog''s love (which is good, because we''re broke)! If money is tight, we''ve got a few ideas on cost-effective ways to bond with your dog.

J.M. Smucker Company Expands Voluntary Recall on Canned Cat Food

J.M. Smucker Company is expanding the recall on certain lots of 9Lives, EverPet, and Special Kitty canned cat food due to possible low levels of thiamine.

Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced ""show-low-eats-queen-tlee"") or Xolo, turns heads with his unusual looks and earns fans with his attentive personality.

Cleaning Cat Teeth: A Guide to Dental Care for Cats

You need to take steps each day to be certain your cat''s mouth is healthy. Here''s a quick guide on how to keep those cat teeth clean and healthy!

DIY Vintage Crate Dog And Cat Beds

Pets will sleep sweetly on this vintage crate bed you can make at home I’ve been on a DIY kinda kick lately. Usually, I bake a batch of dog treats and…

Are Bully Sticks Good for Dogs?

Great to chew on, bully sticks are a wonderful way to keep your dog busy. But are bully sticks good for dogs?

Feline Pregnancy: How To Care For A Pregnant Cat

Your kitty is going to be a mama! But do you know what to do to ensure your cat gets exactly what she needs during her feline pregnancy?

Proper Dog Etiquette When Renting a Cottage

If you''re making plans to rent a cottage, or you''re a guest at a friend''s chalet, you need to know the rules before bringing your dog along with you.

Transport To Freedom: Elvis’ Journey From A U.S. High-Kill Shelter T

Kevin Roberts isn’t just an outdoors enthusiast – he’s also passionate about rescuing and fostering dogs. In this article, he tells us abou…

Best Pet Treats for Squeaky Clean Teeth

Improve your pet''s oral health with dental yummies- they''ll have clean teeth and minty breath, and, as a bonus, get to munch on delicious treats!

Pomston

Pomston dogs are loved for their friendly, easy-going character and loyal nature, and they make perfect companions for families, seniors, and singles.

Blanc De Bouscat

Blanc De Bouscat is a French ""gentle giant"" rabbit, distinct for its pure white fur and red eyes. Due to their friendly personality, they make great pets.

Friesian Horse

The Friesian horse is smart and gentle, though this breed is best suited to individuals who have some level of experience working with horses.

9 Scratch-Free Tips On How To Bathe A Cat

Even cats need a bath. How do you keep your arms intact while undertaking this perilous activity? Here''s how to bathe a cat and remain relatively unscathed.