More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 5000 litres / 1320.86 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 46.0cm / 18.11inches |
| Reef Compatible | Not reef safe |
| Temperament | Unknown |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The American whitespotted filefish, or Cantherhines macrocerus, belongs to the Monacanthidae family and can display a range of colors from grey to yellow or bluish green. It can grow up to 46.0cm in size and is commonly found in the Western Atlantic regions extending from Florida, USA to S\xE3o Paulo, Brazil, and also in the Eastern Atlantic around St. Paul's Rocks.
Aquarium Suitability
The American whitespotted filefish is considered suitable for aquariums with proper care. However, it must be noted that this species may pose a threat to crustaceans such as shrimps, crabs, small bivalves, and snails due to its diet preferences.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
With an average level of hardiness, this filefish requires a minimum tank size of 5000 liters and specific water conditions to thrive. It is recommended to maintain a pH level between 8.1-8.4, a temperature range of 22.2-25.6 degrees Celsius, and a salinity between 1.020-1.025.
Reef Suitability
The American whitespotted filefish is not considered reef-safe due to its tendency to feed on corals, invertebrates, and sponges. Therefore, it is not recommended to house this species in a reef aquarium setup.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the American whitespotted filefish, it is vital to provide plenty of space for swimming and hiding spots to reduce stress. Decorate the tank with suitable live rock formations and ensure a peaceful environment to help the fish adjust to tank life.
Behaviour
The temperament of the American whitespotted filefish is listed as unknown, indicating that more observation and research are needed to fully understand its behavior in captivity.
Feeding and Diet
This species commonly feeds on microalgae like spirulina, small crustaceans such as krill, mysis, and artemia, as well as sponges. It is advisable to provide a varied diet that mimics its natural feeding habits to ensure its nutritional needs are met.
Dimorphism
Information on dimorphism for the American whitespotted filefish is not provided, and details about captive reproduction are also lacking in available resources.
Habitat and Distribution
The American whitespotted filefish inhabits regions in the West Indian Ocean, the Mexican Gulf, and the West Atlantic. Its distribution ranges from Florida, USA, and Bermuda to S\xE3o Paulo, Brazil in the Western Atlantic, with additional sightings in St. Paul's Rocks in the Eastern Atlantic.