Blackbar Filefish (Red Tail)

About this fish

Blackbar Filefish (Red Tail) is a saltwater filefish for the home aquarium, identified here as Pervagor janthinosoma. In a reef or community setup, filefish are valued for their slow, curious behavior and active exploration of live rock, making them a good choice when you want a fish that spends its time moving through the aquascape rather than rushing the tank.

Features:

• Slow, curious swimmer that explores rockwork
• Has a fin spine it can raise when startled
• Benefits from a varied diet in small feedings to support condition
• Some filefish may pick at corals, so monitor carefully if keeping stony corals or other sessile invertebrates
• Does best with peaceful tankmates and plenty of rock for natural grazing and hiding
• Arrives ready to settle—acclimate it slowly and provide a quiet spot

Specifications:

• Scientific name: Pervagor janthinosoma
• Diet: Frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and quality prepared foods
• Feeding frequency: Once or twice daily
• Compatibility note: May pick at corals; watch behavior in reef setups
• Tank setup guidance: Offer peaceful tankmates and rockwork to explore; provide a quiet settling spot after acclimation