Honeycomb Filefish (Cantherhines pardalis)
Reef Compatible – With Caution
Care Level – Expert
Disposition – Peaceful
Min. Tank Size – 40 gallons
Mature Size – 10 inches
Size Information
| Size | Range |
|---|---|
| L | 3″ to 4″ |
FAQ
Is this fish suitable for a reef tank?
This filefish is reef compatible with caution. It may pose a threat to soft corals and anemones, so careful placement and monitoring are required.
What is the minimum tank size recommended for this species?
A minimum tank size of 40 gallons is recommended to provide adequate space and stability for this expert-level care fish.
How big does this filefish grow?
The mature size of this honeycomb filefish reaches up to 10 inches.


Dylan Simpson –
I’ve had this filefish for six months in a 55-gallon tank. It’s peaceful and stays in the back corner. I keep an eye on it because it occasionally nips at soft corals, but overall it’s a good addition to a well-maintained reef setup.
Nicholas Hardacre –
The fish arrived healthy and has been active since setup. I’m cautious about placing it near delicate polyps, but it doesn’t seem aggressive. It’s a good choice for experienced reef keepers.
Richard Gray –
It’s not the most active fish, but it’s calm and doesn’t cause issues in my tank. I noticed it sometimes brushes against a soft coral, so I’ve moved it farther away. Still, it’s a manageable species for experts.