Leafy Filefish
Chaetodermis pencilligerus
| Stock | Variations | Price | Quantity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Out of Stock | 2.25 - 3.5" - Indo-Pacific | Original price was: $245.99.$128.99Current price is: $128.99. | Email me | |
| Out of Stock | 2.25" or smaller - Indo-Pacific | Original price was: $221.99.$116.99Current price is: $116.99. | Email me |
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Full guarantee terms →Ships Monday – Thursday for next-day arrival at your nearest FedEx Hold location — typically ready by 9 AM. We monitor every delivery.
Shipping details →
Monday – Friday 8 AM – 9 PM
Saturday 12 PM – 4 PM
Sunday 12 PM – 9 PM
Healthy, stable animals from vetted suppliers — inspected before packing, shipped overnight. Decades of experience built this model so we can deliver premium livestock at 30%+ less than you'd pay elsewhere.
| Care Level | Easy |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Reef Safe | No |
| Functional Benefit | Ornamental Only |
| Diet Type | Omnivore |
| Mininum Tank Size | 180 gallons |
| Max Size | 12 inches |
| Temperature | 72–78°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.022–1.025 |
The Leafy Filefish (Chaetodermis penicilligerus) is a large, reef-associated filefish with a compressed body and skin “tassels” that break up its outline for seaweed-style camouflage. Its base color is typically tan to light brown with darker striping, and it often moves in a slow, deliberate way around rockwork and weedy areas.
What You’ll Observe:
- Hovering and “swaying” in the water movement, then easing forward in short, controlled swims
- Using rock ledges and sheltered spots as regular resting and “parking” areas
- Taking time to inspect food items closely, picking individual pieces as it feeds
- Spending most of its visible time near structure rather than out in open water
For best results, provide a spacious aquarium with rocks, open swim room, and at least one reliable shelter area. Offer a varied menu of meaty frozen foods along with some algae-based options, and plan on multiple smaller feedings through the day to match its steady, browsing-style pace.
Is it normal for it to hover and sway like a drifting leaf?
Yes—keepers often describe this species as a seaweed/leaf mimic that uses gentle water movement as part of its camouflage behavior.
Why does it sometimes wedge into rockwork or rest at an odd angle?
Many filefish “park” themselves against structure for long periods; this is commonly reported as normal, especially once they’ve chosen favorite spots.
Do smaller specimens tend to settle in differently than larger ones?
In captivity, hobbyists frequently report seeing smaller individuals for sale and in home aquariums, even though the species can grow much larger over time.
Will it accept dried algae sheets (nori) or does it only eat meaty foods?
Many hobbyists report their filefish will graze on nori from a clip once it recognizes it as food, alongside frozen offerings.
Does it do best with calmer tankmates even though it’s peaceful?
Yes—experienced keepers often suggest pairing it with non-nippy fish so its skin tassels stay intact and it can feed without constant interruptions.
We work with trusted suppliers who keep our specimens healthy and well-fed before shipping.
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