File

Filefish usually grow to around six inches in length and feed on algae and crustaceans. Filefish do extremely well in captivity and make ideal candidates for the average home aquarium. Provide Filefish with hiding places and plenty of swimming space. They are not reef safe.

Filefish don’t just swim around—they investigate, hover, and even change colors to blend in with their surroundings. With their angular bodies, tiny mouths, and quirky movements, these fish bring something totally different to a saltwater tank. Whether you want a helpful algae grazer or just an oddball to keep things interesting, filefish are always fun to watch.

Spotlight on Our Filefish

Scrawled Files

Covered in wild blue scribbles and sporting a quirky, elongated profile, the Scrawled Filefish (Aluterus scriptus) is a true standout in any tank. These mellow giants can grow over 2 feet long, so they need serious space—but their chill, curious vibe makes them worth it. They're known to explore their surroundings and might occasionally pick at corals, so they’re best suited for FOWLR setups or carefully selected reef environments.

Green Filefish

If you love the oddball charm of filefish but don’t have room for a giant, the Green Filefish is a solid alternative. Smaller in size but full of personality, they’re constantly on the move and offer the same quirky behavior filefish fans love—without taking over the whole tank.

Orange Tail Filefish

The Orange Tail Filefish (Pervagor janthinosoma) is a stunning species with a muted body color and a strikingly bright orange tail. They tend to be shy at first but become more outgoing as they adjust to their surroundings.

Caring for Filefish

Filefish are hardy but do best with the right setup and diet.

  • Diet: Omnivores that enjoy a mix of algae, small crustaceans, and high-quality prepared foods.
  • Tank Setup: Plenty of live rock and hiding spots help them feel secure and encourage natural behaviors.
  • Behavior: Generally peaceful but can be shy at first. They settle in well with non-aggressive tank mates.

Filefish bring a mix of curiosity, utility, and pure weirdness to any saltwater aquarium. Check back often—we’re always adding more of these fascinating fish to our collection!