Redtail Filefish - Large

Redtail Filefish

The Redtail Filefish has a colour that varies between orange and red. The green variant only has this colour over its tail, but the flame variant has it over its body. The colour at the front is grey or black, and there are small orange spots on its head. There is also a spine on its head it can erect. This is useful for anchoring in rocky crevices.

Breeding information is limited for this species. In general, Filefish species are egg layers. The male will build a nest and, once the eggs are laid, guard the eggs and fry. Reports indicate that certain species of Filefish have been bred in a home aquarium.

This species is found in Indo-Pacific waters. Locations include Indonesia, Japan, and Australia. It inhabits reefs and deeper areas with sponges, and soft corals. Usually between depths of 20-40 metres.

Tank Recommendations for the Redtail Filefish

Tank size should be at least 60 gallons (227.1 litres) for these fish.

The Redtail Filefish is not suitable for a reef tank, as it will nip at invertebrates and coral polyps. A suitable environment is a fish-only tank with plenty of swimming space. This species is quite shy and will need plenty of hiding places.

A tank should be mature, with lots of plant growth. It is a slow mover so strong water movement is unsuitable.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Redtail Filefish have a peaceful temperament. It is best suited to cohabit with peaceful tank buddies who don't nip at fins.

It can show aggression to other Filefish and should be kept singly or in a mated pair.

Usually Compatible

Suitable tank buddies include Dwarf Angelfish, Anthias, Clownfish, Gobies, and reef-safe Wrasses.

Sometime Compatible

Conspecifics are suitable in a mated pair. It may show aggression to other species of Filefish. Caution is advised with Large Angelfish, Dartfish, Dragonets, Pseudochromis, and fish only Wrasse.

Rarely Compatible

Avoid Groupers, Eels, Triggerfish, Sharks, and Rays. Redtail Filefish are a threat to invertebrates and may out-compete Seahorses for food.

Feeding Your Redtail Filefish

Redtail Filefish are omnivores. If there is insufficient food in the aquarium, a variety of items can be used to supplement its diet. Suitable food includes shrimp, scallops, marine fish, krill, clams, and squid. It will also eat some food containing algae. Feed 3 times per day.