Fin's Fish Guide
The Chinaman (Nelusetta ayraud) is a saltwater fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Temperate waters around southern Australia; continental shelf and slope.
Description
The ocean jacket is a large filefish of the family Monacanthidae from the temperate waters around southern Australia. The species grows to about one metre and has an elongate, laterally compressed body with a long snout and the filefish-typical first dorsal fin in the form of a single erect spine. Adults live on the continental shelf and slope, while juveniles appear seasonally in schools in shallow coastal water. As an omnivore it feeds on a variety of invertebrates and plankton. The ocean jacket is an important commercial fish in Australia. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chinaman?
The Chinaman has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. First dorsal fin as a single erect spine and a long snout; important commercial filefish.
Where does the Chinaman live?
The Chinaman lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate waters around southern Australia; continental shelf and slope.
How big does the Chinaman get?
The Chinaman grows to a maximum of about 100 cm.
Is the Chinaman dangerous to humans?
No, the Chinaman is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chinaman edible?
Yes, the Chinaman is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Monacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Chinaman?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chinaman is one of 12,519 species in the app.