Orangetail Filefish

The Fish Orangetail Filefish (Pervagor melanocephalus) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its brilliant orange tail, striking contrast between the dark head and lighter body, compact size, and unique filefish swimming behavior.

Males typically display more intense coloration and slightly elongated dorsal fins, while females and juveniles are smaller, with more subdued colors and rounded fins. They reach about 4.5 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 55 gallons.

Provide ample live rock with hiding spots, moderate open swimming space, and a secure lid since these fish can jump. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temperature ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4) for optimal health.

Their diet should consist of mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, marine pellets, and some algae-based foods. With proper care and a suitable environment, the Orangetail Filefish makes a colorful and unique addition to a marine aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.