Fin's Fish Guide
The Beaked leatherjacket (Oxymonacanthus longirostris) is a saltwater fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The harlequin filefish is a filefish (Monacanthidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species is small and strikingly coloured: blue-green with rows of orange spots and a long, tube-shaped snout. It lives in pairs or small groups on clear lagoon and seaward reefs and is strongly tied to branching stony coral of the genus Acropora, of which it eats almost exclusively the polyps. Owing to this dependence and the decline of coral reefs it is considered vulnerable. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Beaked leatherjacket?
The Beaked leatherjacket has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a spots pattern. Eats almost exclusively Acropora coral polyps; vulnerable through its dependence on coral.
Where does the Beaked leatherjacket live?
The Beaked leatherjacket lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; clear lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Beaked leatherjacket get?
The Beaked leatherjacket grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Beaked leatherjacket dangerous to humans?
No, the Beaked leatherjacket is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Beaked leatherjacket edible?
The Beaked leatherjacket is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Monacanthidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Beaked leatherjacket is one of 12,519 species in the app.