Earspot Filefish

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Indo-Pacific, from East Africa to Samoa. Found in shallow coastal reefs, lagoons, and areas rich in algae.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Belongs to the family Monacanthidae. Features a deep, compressed body, a prominent barbed dorsal spine, and grows to 14 cm.

Social Behavior: Shy, cryptic species that stays close to rocks. Generally peaceful but territorial against similar filefish.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Bluish-gray or brownish body shaded with bright yellow or orange near the tail. Marked by a distinct black spot. No dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: A minimum tank size of 200 liters (50 gallons) with plenty of live rock forming caves and overhangs.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous. Feeds on algae, small benthic invertebrates, and detritus. Provide mysis, brine shrimp, and spirulina flakes.

Water Quality: Requires stable marine conditions: temperature 23-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and efficient biological filtration.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Safe with peaceful tankmates.

Reef safe with caution:, as it may nip at soft corals, zoanthids, and LPS.

Aquarium Breeding: Not documented in domestic reef systems.

Risks and Diseases: May be slow to accept dry foods. Target feeding is recommended in community setups.