Acreichthys tomentosus

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Acreichthys tomentosus, also known as the bristle-tail filefish or Aiptasia-eating filefish, is a small tropical fish found across the Indo-Pacific. It grows up to about 12 cm, usually around 4–9 cm. It can quickly change its color, skin texture, and patterns to blend in and avoid predators. The species lays eggs (is oviparous).

Distribution and habitat:
- Widespread in tropical waters from Sri Lanka to the Pacific islands, including Ishigaki, the Philippines, Indonesia, New Guinea, Queensland, New Caledonia, and Tonga.
- Lives in shallow coral reefs, preferring areas with seagrass, at depths of 2–15 meters. Likes warm, well-oxygenated water (about 27.6–29 °C).

Diet:
- Feeds on small invertebrates such as amphipods, polychaetes, and molluscs.
- In aquariums, it’s valued for eating Aiptasia anemones, a common pest.

Conservation status:
- Least Concern.