Harlequin Filefish (Oxymonacanthus longirostris)
Fish in the family Monacanthidae. Expert care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
A small, laterally compressed filefish with a distinctive long snout and bright coloration featuring orange-yellow body with blue and orange reticulated markings and spots. Males display more vibrant coloration than females.
Diet and feeding
In the wild, feeds primarily on coral polyps and small benthic invertebrates. In captivity, requires a varied diet of small foods including frozen mysis shrimp, copepods, amphipods, and specialized prepared foods. Feeding small frequent meals is essential due to their small mouth and high metabolism.
Difficulty and care for the Harlequin Filefish
Expert - Very difficult to feed in captivity. Often requires live Acropora corals. Best suited for expert aquarists only.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial infections, Parasitic infestations, Starvation
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific coral reef regions, including the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding areas from Indonesia to the western Pacific.
Keeper notes
Famous for eating Acropora coral polyps. Very difficult to feed in captivity. Often starves if not provided with live Acropora. Not recommended for most aquarists.
Log Harlequin 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 Harlequin Filefish alongside everything else in your reef.
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