Fin's Fish Guide
The Freycinet's leatherjacket (Meuschenia freycineti) is a saltwater fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Temperate waters around southern Australia; continental shelf, reefs and seagrass.
Description
The sixspine leatherjacket is a filefish of the family Monacanthidae from the temperate waters around southern Australia. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a strongly laterally compressed body with a rough, leathery skin and a conspicuous, lockable first dorsal spine. Adults live on the continental shelf, often around reefs and seagrass; juveniles in estuaries and shallow water. As an omnivore it nibbles algae, seagrass, sponges and small invertebrates. Filefishes can lock the dorsal spine upright, making them hard for predators to swallow. The sixspine leatherjacket is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freycinet's leatherjacket?
The Freycinet's leatherjacket has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Rough, leathery skin and a lockable first dorsal fin spine against predators.
Where does the Freycinet's leatherjacket live?
The Freycinet's leatherjacket lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate waters around southern Australia; continental shelf, reefs and seagrass.
How big does the Freycinet's leatherjacket get?
The Freycinet's leatherjacket grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Freycinet's leatherjacket dangerous to humans?
No, the Freycinet's leatherjacket is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Freycinet's leatherjacket edible?
Yes, the Freycinet's leatherjacket is commonly eaten.
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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 Freycinet's leatherjacket?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freycinet's leatherjacket is one of 12,519 species in the app.