{"product_id":"tassle-filefish-chaetodermis-penicilligerus-expert","title":"Tassled Filefish (Chaetodermis penicilligerus) EXPERT","description":"\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlso Known As:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tassel Filefish, Prickly Leatherjacket\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompatibility and Behavior\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eFew fish pull off camouflage quite like the Tassled Filefish. The mottled olive-to-tan body, long tassel-like skin flaps, and wispy filaments along the head and fins make it look less like a fish and more like a drifting piece of rockwork or macroalgae — it's a genuinely odd-looking animal in the best possible way. In terms of temperament, this species tends to be peaceful toward most mild-mannered, similarly-sized fish. Tangs, wrasses, and angelfish of comparable size generally make good neighbors. That said, it can become assertive toward other filefish or similar-bodied species, and very small or timid tankmates may not fare as well sharing space with it. This is not a reef-safe fish. It will typically pick at soft and stony corals, polyps, sponges, anemones, and small invertebrates including ornamental shrimp, snails, and crabs. Even in well-stocked systems with plenty of natural grazing opportunities, there's always a real chance it goes after sessile invertebrates — not a risk worth taking in a mixed reef.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAquarium Requirements\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe Tassled Filefish does best in a roomy, well-established FOWLR or fish-only setup with plenty of live rock for grazing and exploring. Smaller to medium size adults need at least 90 gallons, and larger systems are genuinely preferred as this fish grows and becomes more confident. Rock structures with caves, overhangs, and shaded spots are important — this species can be shy at first and benefits from having places to retreat to while it settles in. Keep flow moderate. Filefish are slow, deliberate swimmers and can struggle in high-current areas. A secure, tight-fitting lid matters here too, as filefish can jump when startled. Diet should cover both sides of the omnivore spectrum: meaty foods like mysis and finely chopped seafood alongside algae-based fare like nori, herbivore pellets, and whatever microalgae naturally colonizes the rockwork. Variety and consistency at feeding time go a long way toward keeping this fish healthy and less inclined to experiment on corals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecifications\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eApproximate Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3–4\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Omnivore — meaty marine foods and algae-based fare\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Indo-Pacific (Indonesia to Japan)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCare Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReef Safe:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peaceful; may be assertive toward similar species\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMinimum Tank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90 gallons\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Reef Beauties","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48996059414757,"sku":null,"price":110.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/3005\/0300\/files\/IMG-3381.png?v=1778348375","url":"https:\/\/reefbeauties.com\/products\/tassle-filefish-chaetodermis-penicilligerus-expert","provider":"Reef Beauties","version":"1.0","type":"link"}