ORA White Spotted Pygmy Filefish

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Easy
• Diet: Omnivore
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Reef-Safe: Yes, with Caution
• Source: Captive Bred
• Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1.5"
• Approximate Max Size: 3"
• Recommended Tank Size: 20 Gallons or Larger

Overview

This fish is shipped directly to you with exceptional care and high-grade packaging specifically made for live animals from our partner, ORA. This animal is certified by the Mr. Chili Sustainability Alliance, meaning it is sustainably bred, was raised with exceptional husbandry practices, and 2% of net proceeds will be donated to support Ocean Conservation. 

The White Spotted Pygmy Filefish (Rudarius ercodes) is naturally found in seagrass beds off the coast of Japan and a great addition to a peaceful saltwater aquarium. Growing only 3" long, this speckled fish can change its color depending on its mood and surroundings. They are comfortable in groups and in high-flow environments, making them extremely adaptable.

ORA reports keeping this fish in reef tanks with both hard and soft corals without any nipping. They are likely reef safe, but it's a good idea to monitor your corals for any signs of nipping after adding this fish.

Note: Image is a representation of what to expect. The fish you receive may vary slightly in appearance.

Aquarium Requirements

Aquarium Size

More space is always beneficial, but a minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for this Filefish. If keeping more than one, or housing with other tank mates, consider a larger aquarium to provide enough space for all inhabitants to establish territories.

Habitat Recommendations

Filefish thrive in environments with plenty of hiding places and natural structures. Here’s how to create an ideal setup:

• Aquascaping: Live rock formations provide excellent cover, security, and natural hunting grounds for filefish.
• Substrate: No specific substrate is required, and they adapt well to sand, crushed coral, or bare-bottom setups.

Water Parameters

Maintaining stable water conditions is key for keeping a healthy Filefish:

• Temperature: 75-78°F
• pH Level: 7.7 to 8.5
• Salinity: 1.023-1.026 (30-35ppt)
• Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate: Ammonia and nitrite should be undetectable, with nitrate levels kept below 20 ppm
• Water Flow: Adaptable to low to high flow environments.

Diet

White Spotted Pygmy Filefish are omnivores and will accept a wide range of food types, including frozen and pellet foods.

Primary Diet

• Frozen Food: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood are excellent choices.
• Pellet Food: Some individuals will accept high-quality marine pellets or flakes, but frozen options are generally preferred.
• Live Food: Offering live blackworms or enriched brine shrimp can help encourage feeding in newly introduced fish.

Feeding Frequency: Feed 2-3 times daily in small portions. Since these fish can be slow feeders, ensure they have enough time to consume food without competition from faster fish.

Compatibility

White Spotted Pygmy Filefish are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of tank mates.

Common Tank Mates

• Fish: Clownfish, Gobies, Blennies, Cardinalfish, most Wrasse, Firefish, Tangs, Dwarf Angelfish, and other peaceful fish.
• Invertebrates: Some individuals may nip at small shrimp.
• Coral: ORA reports keeping this fish in reef tanks with both hard and soft corals without any nipping. They are likely reef safe, but it's a good idea to monitor your corals for any signs of nipping after adding this fish.

Behavioral Notes

• Personality: Curious and intelligent, often engaging in slow, deliberate swimming patterns.
• Camouflage: Can change coloration to blend with its surroundings, making it an expert at hiding.

Acclimation Process

Acclimation instructions are included in each box, but if you misplaced yours or want to know what to expect ahead of time, you can always find an extra copy here: Fish Acclimation Instructions