Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded leather-jacket (Acreichthys tomentosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Indo-West Pacific; reef, seaweed and rubble areas of shallow coral reefs.
Description
The bristletail filefish is a small filefish of the family Monacanthidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a laterally compressed, greenish to brown mottled body that camouflages it among weed and seagrass; it can change colour quickly. Adults inhabit reef, weed and rubble areas of shallow coral reefs. As an omnivore it nibbles algae, seagrass, small invertebrates and coral polyps. In the aquarium it is used to control pest anemones (Aiptasia). The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded leather-jacket?
The Banded leather-jacket has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a marbled pattern. Rapidly changing camouflage colour; used in aquaria against pest anemones (Aiptasia).
Where does the Banded leather-jacket live?
The Banded leather-jacket lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; reef, seaweed and rubble areas of shallow coral reefs.
How big does the Banded leather-jacket get?
The Banded leather-jacket grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Banded leather-jacket dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded leather-jacket is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded leather-jacket edible?
The Banded leather-jacket is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Acreichthys
More from the family Monacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded leather-jacket?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded leather-jacket is one of 12,519 species in the app.