One of my favorite fish is the Fantail Filefish (Pervagor spilosoma). It originates from the eastern side of the pacific (mostly around Hawaii). Many of the Hawaiian locals call this fish the “Leopard Filefish.” You can see clearly why in the picture below.
Fantail Filefish (Pervagor spilosoma)
These fish tend to be aggressive with similar and the same species. I’ve had great success getting them eating prepared foods. It seems they are willing to try anything including ornamental shrimp and may even “taste” corals. I’ve seen them test bite just about everything. They grow to a max of about 7″ but I think their activity level warrants a larger tank for them.
My favorite thing about these filefish (other than their appearance) is how active they are. They constantly are swimming around the tank and through the rock work. Definitely one of the most entertaining fish I’ve kept.
The real mystery of these filefish is the episodic spawning they engage in. Once in a while (timing is not really known) this fish is found in overwhelming numbers in the shallows of Hawaii. Many of the fish are preyed upon or wash up on the beaches dead. This spawning occurrence was particularly peculiar in 1944, 1975 and 1982-1987. This is when millions of the fish gathered. It’s not known what triggers the event or what the rationale for it is.
Fantail Filefish (Pervagor spilosoma)
I’ve wanted to breed these fish in captivity although it seems unlikely even though I did experience a spawning of a similar species, Pervagor melanocephalus. Hopefully, in time, I’ll be posting a blog about my Fantail Filefish spawning.
Orangetail Filefish (Pervagor melanocephalus)
My favorite fish by far!
It might be mine as well if you could find me one !
I’m working on it. I already have one on hold 🙂
Leopard Filefish ??? I’ve spent the last 20 years living and diving in Hawaii with these and other reef fish, and I gotta tell you there’s no such thing known in Hawaii as Leopard Filefish. I think you’re listening to people who have no idea what they’re talking about. This Fantail Filefish is known by Hawaiians as ‘o’ili’uwi’uwi. Be suspicious of what you hear.
The fish was correctly identified by its most common name and more importantly its scientific name within this post. Many Hawaiian suppliers call it the Leopard Filefish. I believe this is done to avoid confusion with the Redtail Filefish (Pervagor melanocephalus) which can also be found in Hawaii. Its awesome to know the Hawaiian translation. Thank you for sharing!