Common name: Fringed Fiiefish

General information

The Fringed Filefish, scientifically known as Monacanthus ciliatus, is a unique and intriguing species within the Monacanthidae family. This species is known for its distinctive appearance, featuring a body covered with small, weed-like appendages that provide excellent camouflage among seagrasses and algae. The Fringed Filefish can change its color to blend in with its surroundings, making it a master of disguise.

Care

Fringed Filefish are suitable for fish-only or reef aquariums with ample hiding places and a peaceful environment. They can reach up to 8 inches in length and require a tank size of at least 75 gallons. These fish are omnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods and algae-based preparations. It's important to note that they may nip at soft corals, sessile invertebrates, and clam mantles, so they should be monitored in a reef setting.

Reproduction

In the wild, Fringed Filefish are known to exhibit a unique mating behavior where males prepare a nesting area and perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females. The details of their reproductive habits in home aquariums are not well-documented, but they are considered difficult to breed in captivity.

Habitat

Monacanthus ciliatus is found in shallow, tropical marine environments, often among seagrasses, mangroves, and coral reefs. They are distributed across the Western Atlantic, from Bermuda and the northern Gulf of Mexico to Brazil, including the Caribbean Sea.