Tassel Filefish

The Tassel Filefish, Chaetodermis penicilligerus, can grow up to a maximum size of 6 inches (15 cm) in length. It has a slender body with a triangular shape, and its distinct feature is the presence of tassel-like appendages on the dorsal and anal fins.

Natural Habitat

In its natural habitat, these fish are typically found in tropical waters of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand. It inhabits coral reefs and rocky areas with plenty of hiding spots and crevices.

Keeping the Tassel Filefish Healthy:

The Tassel Filefish requires moderate care and attention in the aquarium. It is important to maintain stable water parameters, including a temperature range of 75-82°F (24-28°C), a pH range of 8.1-8.4, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12 dKH. Regular water quality monitoring and appropriate tank mates are essential for its well-being.

Special Requirements and Feeding:

The Tassel Filefish primarily feeds on algae, including filamentous and macroalgae. It also consumes small invertebrates such as copepods and amphipods. Providing a varied diet that includes algae-based foods and live or frozen small invertebrates is crucial to meet its nutritional needs.

How Many Should I Keep?

It is recommended to keep only one Tassel Filefish per aquarium due to its territorial behaviour and potential aggression towards conspecifics or similar-looking fish.

Lighting Preference

The Tassel Filefish prefers moderate to high lighting levels in the aquarium, mimicking the intensity and spectrum of light found in its natural habitat.

Suitable Tank Mates

While the Tassel Filefish is generally peaceful, caution should be exercised when selecting tank mates, especially delicate or expensive corals. Compatible tank mates include peaceful community fish and invertebrates that can coexist without posing a threat to one another.

Reproduction in the Wild

Limited information is available regarding the specific reproductive behaviour of the Tassel Filefish in the wild.

Breeding Chaetodermis penicilligerus

Breeding the Tassel Filefish in captivity is challenging and rarely attempted due to their specialized requirements. Here is an overview of the breeding process:

1. Setup:

Provide a well-maintained aquarium with appropriate water parameters and live rock or artificial structures for egg deposition.

2. Courtship and Spawning:

The courtship behaviour of the Tassel Filefish is not well-documented. Spawning typically occurs in the early morning, with the male releasing sperm and the female depositing eggs on suitable surfaces.

3. Rearing Offspring:

The eggs are adhesive and adhere to the substrate. Once hatched, the larvae require specialized rearing techniques, including providing suitable food sources such as copepods and rotifers.

Sexual Dimorphism

There are no significant visible differences between male and female Tassel Filefish in terms of appearance.

Distribution

The Tassel Filefish is naturally distributed in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand. It is not commonly available as a captive-bred or line-bred strain.

Summary

The Tassel Filefish, Chaetodermis penicilligerus, is a striking fish species found in Southeast Asia. With its unique appearance and moderate care requirements, it can be a fascinating addition to a well-maintained aquarium. However, due to its delicate nature and potential for aggression towards conspecifics, careful consideration should be given to its care, tank mates, and habitat setup.