Fin's Fish Guide
The Barred filefish (Cantherhines dumerilii) is a saltwater fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Description
The barred filefish is a large filefish from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 38 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, greyish-brown body with rough, leathery skin, orange teeth and a few rows of spinelets near the tail. With its strong teeth it bites off pieces of coral branches and feeds mainly on stony-coral polyps, but also algae and small invertebrates. With a lockable first dorsal spine it wedges itself into crevices at night. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barred filefish?
The Barred filefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Orange teeth and a lockable dorsal fin spine; feeds mainly on coral polyps
Where does the Barred filefish live?
The Barred filefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Barred filefish get?
The Barred filefish grows to a maximum of about 38 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Barred filefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Barred filefish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Barred filefish edible?
The Barred filefish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cantherhines
More from the family Monacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Barred filefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barred filefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.