Matted Filefish (Acreichthys Tomentosus)

The Matted Filefish, also known as the Aiptasia-Eating Filefish, is a fascinating and beneficial addition to many marine aquariums. Known for its unique, camouflaged appearance and a rough, mottled texture that helps it blend into its surroundings, this filefish is especially valued for its appetite for Aiptasia anemones—a common pest in reef tanks. Its peaceful yet quirky nature makes it an intriguing fish to observe. However, while generally reef-safe, there is a chance it may nip at corals when not well-fed.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 4 inches.
• Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum; requires a tank with plenty of rockwork for hiding and foraging.
• Diet: Omnivorous; primarily feeds on Aiptasia anemones, but also requires a varied diet of frozen foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and algae-based foods. Supplementing with high-quality pellets helps keep it from turning to corals for food.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; the Matted Filefish is generally non-aggressive and can coexist well with other peaceful fish, though it may become territorial toward other filefish.
• Skill Level: Intermediate; relatively hardy but requires careful monitoring in reef setups due to potential coral nipping.
• Reef Compatibility: With caution; while prized for its ability to eat Aiptasia, the Matted Filefish may occasionally nip at soft corals, LPS, and zoanthids, especially if it is underfed or acclimating.

Special Feature - Aiptasia Control
The Matted Filefish is particularly valued for its potential to control Aiptasia anemones, which are invasive and challenging to manage in reef tanks. Many aquarists find success in using this filefish to reduce Aiptasia populations naturally. However, not all individuals exhibit this behavior, so its effectiveness can vary.

Compatibility
The Matted Filefish is peaceful overall and compatible with other non-aggressive tankmates, though care should be taken when pairing with similarly shaped fish. Providing a varied diet will help keep it from turning to corals for food and ensure it thrives in the aquarium.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Matted Filefish has a mottled brownish-green coloration, which allows it to camouflage among rocks and corals. This cryptic appearance helps it blend in and makes it a unique addition visually to any tank​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly around coral reefs and rocky coastal areas. This filefish is often found in shallow lagoons and reef flats, where it blends into the environment and searches for small invertebrates.