Fin's Fish Guide
The Bridled leatherjacket (Acanthaluteres spilomelanurus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The bridled leatherjacket is a filefish (Monacanthidae) from the waters around southern Australia. The species is small and has a strongly laterally compressed body with a rough skin, an erectile dorsal spine and, in males, a dark blotch on the tail base. It schools mainly in estuaries over seagrass beds and in Sargassum weed areas. It feeds on small invertebrates and algae. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bridled leatherjacket?
The Bridled leatherjacket has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Rough skin and an erectile dorsal fin spine; schooling filefish of seagrass beds in estuaries.
Where does the Bridled leatherjacket live?
The Bridled leatherjacket lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Australia; estuaries over seagrass beds and seaweed areas.
How big does the Bridled leatherjacket get?
The Bridled leatherjacket grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Bridled leatherjacket dangerous to humans?
No, the Bridled leatherjacket is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bridled leatherjacket edible?
The Bridled leatherjacket is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Acanthaluteres
More from the family Monacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Bridled leatherjacket?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bridled leatherjacket is one of 12,519 species in the app.