Common name: Blacklined filefish
General information
The Blackline Filefish, scientifically known as Pervagor nigrolineatus, is a unique and somewhat rare addition to the marine aquarium. This species is known for its distinct black lines that run along its body, complemented by a pale yellow to greenish background color. It is a member of the family Monacanthidae, which includes other filefish.
In the wild, these fish are often found in shallow reefs and lagoons, where they blend in with their surroundings thanks to their cryptic coloration. They are adept at navigating through coral branches and are known to feed on a variety of small invertebrates and algae.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 150 liter (40 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 26 °C (75 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 12 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers complex rockwork
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. algae, meaty foods
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at slow-moving fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPufferfishTetraodontiformes
- FamilyFilefishMonacanthidae
- GenusSpiny boxfishPervagor
- SpeciesBlacklined filefishPervagor nigrolineatus (Herre, 1927)
- SynonymsStephanolepis nigrolineatus Herre, 1927Stephanolepis septemclassiensis Barton, 1945
Care
Blackline Filefish require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They can be shy and are best kept in a peaceful community tank. It's important to provide a varied diet that includes marine algae, small crustaceans, and other meaty foods to maintain their health and coloration.
Due to their potential to nip at soft corals and clams, they are not recommended for reef tanks with a large variety of corals. However, they can do well in a fish-only or a larger predator tank setup where their behavior will not harm other tank inhabitants.
Reproduction
Little is known about the breeding habits of Pervagor nigrolineatus in the wild or in captivity. Like many marine fish, they are presumed to be broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs externally.
Habitat
The Blackline Filefish is native to the Central and Western Pacific Ocean. They are typically found in coral-rich areas and lagoons, often at depths ranging from the shallows down to about 30 meters. Their natural habitat includes regions around Hawaii, Johnston Atoll, and the Marshall Islands.