Blackheaded filefish

The blackheaded filefish is a small, striking monacanthid recognized by its dark forebody and orange-red tail. It inhabits coral-rich lagoons and outer reef slopes of the western Pacific, where it shelters among branching corals. Generally peaceful and shy, it does best in a mature reef or fish-only aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and refuge, and calm tankmates that will not outcompete it at feeding time. It is not fully reef-safe: it may nip at soft corals, coral polyps, and small sessile invertebrates. Maintain stable marine conditions around 24-27C, salinity 33-35 ppt, pH 8.1-8.4. Offer a varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis and enriched brine shrimp alongside marine algae and prepared rations, feeding several small meals daily. A secure lid and low-stress environment help this delicate species settle in.