The Aiptasia Eating Filefish (Acreichthys tomentosus), also known as the Bristletail Filefish or Aiptasia Filefish, is a small species of filefish valued in the aquarium trade for its ability to consume Aiptasia anemones.

Distribution and Habitat

The Aiptasia Eating Filefish is found in the Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea and East Africa to Japan and Australia. It inhabits shallow coastal reefs, seagrass beds, and rubble areas at depths of 1 to 15 meters.

Physical Description

The Aiptasia Eating Filefish reaches a maximum length of approximately 12 cm (4.7 in). It has a mottled brown to olive green coloration that provides excellent camouflage among algae and rubble. The body is laterally compressed with a rough texture typical of filefish.

Diet and Feeding

The Aiptasia Eating Filefish is omnivorous. In the wild it feeds on algae, small invertebrates, and notably Aiptasia anemones. In captivity it is valued for its ability to control Aiptasia pest anemones in reef tanks. It also accepts a varied diet including flakes, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and frozen preparations.

Behavior and Reproduction

This species is peaceful and generally non-aggressive. It is a slow swimmer and spends much of its time near the substrate or hiding among rocks and coral.

Aquarium Care

It requires a tank of at least 30 gallons with abundant live rock. It is considered reef-safe with caution as it may nip at some corals. It is valued for its ability to control Aiptasia anemones in reef tanks. It is peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tankmates.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.