Clown Filefish (Cantherhines dumerili)

Fish in the family Monacanthidae. Moderate care. Not Reef Safe.

Quick facts

Scientific nameCantherhines dumerili

FamilyMonacanthidae

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietomnivore

Adult size5.5 in

Minimum tank size75 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025

Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

The Clown Filefish has a distinctive yellow-orange body with large blue rings or spots and black markings, particularly around the eyes and mouth. The body is compressed and somewhat rectangular with a small upright spine on the forehead, and it has an intricate, ornate appearance that resembles its common name.

Diet and feeding

In captivity, feed a varied diet of small crustaceans (copepods, amphipods), finely chopped meaty foods (mysis shrimp, minced fish), and high-quality prepared foods. Feed 1-2 times daily, offering only what the fish can consume in a few minutes to maintain water quality.

Difficulty and care for the Clown Filefish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea to Hawaii and the Great Barrier Reef, typically found on reef slopes and in reef areas.

Log Clown Filefish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Clown Filefish alongside everything else in your reef.

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