Fin's Fish Guide
The Beautiful leatherjacket (Meuschenia venusta) is a saltwater fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The beautiful leatherjacket is a filefish (Monacanthidae) from temperate reef waters of southern Australia. The species grows to about 21 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed body with a rough skin, a small beak-like mouth and a handsome pattern of orange and blue lines. The first dorsal spine is modified into an erectable trigger. It lives around rocky reefs and kelp and eats weed, sponges and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Beautiful leatherjacket?
The Beautiful leatherjacket has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly multicoloured.
Where does the Beautiful leatherjacket live?
The Beautiful leatherjacket lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Beautiful leatherjacket get?
The Beautiful leatherjacket grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Beautiful leatherjacket dangerous to humans?
No, the Beautiful leatherjacket 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.
Want the complete picture on the Beautiful leatherjacket?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Beautiful leatherjacket is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Meuschenia
More from the family Monacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Beautiful leatherjacket?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Beautiful leatherjacket is one of 12,519 species in the app.