Common name: Mimic filefish

General information

The Blacksaddle Filefish, or Paraluteres prionurus, is a unique species known for its remarkable mimicry of the Valentini pufferfish (Canthigaster valentini). This resemblance to a toxic species serves as a defense mechanism against predators. The Blacksaddle Filefish is a peaceful and shy fish that can reach up to 11 cm in length.

Care

In the aquarium, the Blacksaddle Filefish requires a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They are not considered reef safe as they may nip at soft corals, sessile invertebrates, and clam mantles. A varied diet of meaty foods, algae, and marine-based flake or pellet food is recommended to maintain their health.

Reproduction

Reproduction in the home aquarium is rare for this species. In the wild, they are oviparous, with females laying eggs that are then fertilized by the male. The eggs are adhesive and attach to substrates.

Symbiosis

The Blacksaddle Filefish does not have any notable symbiotic relationships in the aquarium setting. However, its mimicry of the Valentini pufferfish is a fascinating example of Batesian mimicry in the wild, where a harmless species evolves to imitate the warning signals of a harmful species to deter predators.

Habitat

This species is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Society Islands, north to southern Japan, and south to New South Wales, Australia. They inhabit lagoons and coral reef areas, often seen swimming alone or in pairs.