Redtail Filefish

Introduction: The Redtail Filefish is a captivating marine species that adds a unique flair to saltwater aquariums. Known for its vibrant red tail and intriguing body shape, this fish, scientifically named Pervagor melanocephalus, is admired for its distinctive appearance and peaceful temperament. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, the Redtail Filefish is a relatively hardy fish, making it a suitable choice for intermediate and experienced aquarists alike.

Scientific Name: The Redtail Filefish is scientifically known as Pervagor melanocephalus. It is a member of the Monacanthidae family, commonly referred to as the filefish family due to their rough, sandpaper-like skin.

Water Quality and Temperature: To ensure the well-being of your Redtail Filefish, it’s important to maintain the following water parameters that closely resemble their natural habitat:

• Temperature: Keep the water temperature between 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C) to ensure optimal health.
• pH Level: Maintain a pH level between 8.1 and 8.4, replicating the slightly alkaline conditions of the ocean.
• Salinity: A specific gravity of 1.020 to 1.025 is ideal for marine environments.
• KH Level: Ensure the carbonate hardness (KH) is within 8 to 12 dKH for a stable and healthy tank environment.

Feeding: The Redtail Filefish is an omnivore, with a diet that should include a variety of marine-based foods:

• Marine Flakes or Pellets: High-quality marine flake or pellet foods that provide a balanced diet.
• Frozen Foods: Offer frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood like squid or clams to meet their protein needs.
• Vegetables: They will also benefit from the inclusion of marine algae or seaweed, either fresh or dried, to support their herbivorous tendencies.

Tank Mates: The Redtail Filefish is generally peaceful but can exhibit territorial behavior in smaller tanks. Ideal tank mates include other peaceful marine species such as clownfish, gobies, and smaller wrasses. It is best to avoid housing them with more aggressive species, or with delicate invertebrates, as filefish may nip at small crustaceans and corals.

Substrates and Tank Decorations: Use a fine sandy substrate that mimics their natural seafloor environment. Redtail Filefish appreciate a well-structured tank with plenty of hiding spots, so include live rock, coral rubble, and caves to create a natural and secure habitat. These fish enjoy exploring and will feel more at ease in a tank that offers ample cover.

Suitable Plants: In a marine setup, while live plants are less common, macroalgae such as Caulerpa or Halimeda can be introduced to provide additional cover and grazing opportunities for your Redtail Filefish. These plants can also help maintain water quality by absorbing excess nutrients.

Sexing: Sexing Redtail Filefish can be challenging, as there are few external differences between males and females. Observing behavior during breeding seasons can sometimes offer clues, with males becoming more aggressive or territorial. However, reliable sexing usually requires a trained eye and is best left to experts.

Breeding: Breeding Redtail Filefish in captivity is rare and challenging due to their specific breeding habits and the difficulty in replicating their natural spawning conditions. In the wild, they are known to form pairs and spawn in secluded areas. If breeding is attempted, it’s essential to provide a separate, well-established breeding tank with plenty of hiding spots and stable water conditions.

Maximum Size and Longevity: The Redtail Filefish can grow to about 5 to 6 inches (12 to 15 cm) in length. With proper care, these fish can live up to 5 to 7 years in a well-maintained marine aquarium.

General Information: The Redtail Filefish is an intriguing and visually striking addition to any marine tank. Its unique body shape and vibrant red tail make it a standout species that draws attention. Despite their peaceful nature, they may exhibit some level of curiosity toward their environment, which can include nipping at corals and invertebrates. As such, they are best suited for fish-only or carefully selected reef tanks.

A Fun Fact: The Redtail Filefish is often mistaken for the more venomous pufferfish due to its similar appearance. However, the Redtail Filefish is harmless and relies more on camouflage and its tough, leathery skin for protection rather than toxins, making it a fascinating and safe choice for marine aquariums.