Description
BIOTA Aiptasia-Eating Filefish (Acreichthys tomentosus)
Glass anenomes (Aiptasia spp.) are a common occurrence in reef aquaria. Yet, they are universally feared and hated for their ability to sting, and often kill, neighboring animals such as corals. Aquarists have used many methods to control (if not eradicate) this pest. The most effective means of long-term control are typically biological. Several, though not many, aquarium species are known to feed on glass anemones. Among these, one of the most reliable is the Aiptasia-eating filefish<span style=”font-size: 16px;”>.
Aside from its welcomed habit of consuming a potentially destructive pest, this captive bred offering has a bizarre appearance and charming personality.
See below for more information.
Size and Care Requirements
- Purchase Size: ~0.5-1″ (length)
- Max Size: 3″ (length)
- Water Parameters:~78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.0-8.4, s.g. 1.021-1.023
- Color: Silver-grey or green with cryptic black/mocha blotches (varies with environment).
- Reef-Safe: Yes, with caution
- Feeding: Carnivorous
Aiptasia-Eating Filefish Species Information
A. tomentosus is distributed across the Indo-West Pacific from East Africa to Fiji, and from the Ryukyu Islands (Japan) to New South Wales (Australia).
Benefits of Aquacultured Marine Livestock
Aquacultured Aiptasia-eating filefish offer a huge advantage over wild-caught specimens. For example, when bred and raised under captive conditions, they adjust more easily to aquarium life. They are also much less likely to carry disease. Better yet, aquacultured specimens can better tolerate shipping stress. Most notably, by purchasing aquacultured fish you support the aquaculture of marine organisms and help to make our hobby more sustainable!
100% Alive on Arrival (AoA) Guarantee
We guarantee that every Aiptasia-eating filefish we sell will be Alive On Arrival and in good health. Should it arrive in any other state, we will either replace it free of charge (including shipping) or issue store credit if the total livestock loss is less than $40. For more information, please also visit our 100% Alive On Arrival Guarantee page.
Please Note: Overnight shipping (not included) is required for all Live Fish. Failure to select an overnight shipping option at checkout will complicate and delay your order.
James Wohler (verified owner) –
I hate to give a bad review but this fish was so tiny it is/was literally the size of my pinky fingernail. Chance of survival is probably zero. Looked healthy for the 12 seconds I saw it so I gave it two stars.
jenn (verified owner) –
I have had my Filefish for over a year now. He started out super small and was getting blown all over the tank. He settled in quickly and found ways to stay away from the flow while he grew. Now he is a pretty good sized fish and does his job well because I have never seen Aiptasia in my tank. Waiting for more stock to come in so I can add another to my new tank as well!
matthew.k.wyatt –
Purchased directly from Biota, this is a great hardy fish,