Tassel Filefish

The Tassel Filefish (Chaetodermis penicilligerus) is a peaceful species that is not reef-safe, admired for its unique appearance, including light brown coloration with dark horizontal stripes and distinctive tassels along its body. These tassels provide excellent camouflage among weedy areas and rock crevices, making this fish both fascinating and visually striking in an aquarium setting.

Males and females of this species display little sexual dimorphism, sharing the same coloration, size, and unique features. Tassel Filefish can reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length and require a minimum tank size of 180 gallons (680 liters). They thrive in aquariums with ample rockwork, caves, and hiding spaces, alongside a sandbed for natural grazing behavior. Open swimming areas are also important to accommodate their active nature, and a secure lid is recommended, as they are known to jump.

Water parameters should be kept stable, with salinity around 1.020–1.025, temperature between 72–79°F (22–26°C), and pH ranging from 8.1–8.4. A well-established tank with low to moderate water flow is ideal for this species, ensuring they feel comfortable and secure.

In the wild and in captivity, Tassel Filefish are omnivores and benefit from a varied diet, including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, algae, and vitamin-enriched foods. Feeding should be frequent, ideally no fewer than three times per day, to support their nutritional needs and vibrant coloration.

Although generally peaceful, Tassel Filefish may exhibit territorial behavior toward other filefish or similarly shaped species. They are best kept with other docile fish in a peaceful, fish-only-with-live-rock (FOWLR) aquarium. Aggressive tankmates like puffers and triggers should be avoided to prevent stress or injury.With proper care, the Tassel Filefish becomes a standout addition to a marine aquarium, combining striking appearance with interesting behavior, making it a rewarding species for experienced aquarists.

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.