Fin's Fish Guide
The Fringed filefish (Monacanthus ciliatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, among seagrass, seaweeds and reefs of shallow coastal water.
Description
The fringed filefish is a deep, strongly compressed fish of the family Monacanthidae (filefishes) reaching about 20 cm. The skin feels rough like a file, hence the name, and the colour is brown to greenish and marbled, camouflaging it superbly among seagrass and weed. On the head stands a stout, erect dorsal spine that it can lock upright, and under the belly is a fold of skin it can fan out to look larger. The species lives among seagrass, weed and reefs of shallow coastal water along the western Atlantic coast. As an omnivore it eats algae, seagrass, small crustaceans and growth. Because of its camouflage and slow swimming it draws little notice.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fringed filefish?
The Fringed filefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Deep, laterally flattened little fish with a rough, file-like skin, an upright dorsal spine and a fold-out ventral flap. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Fringed filefish live?
The Fringed filefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, among seagrass, seaweeds and reefs of shallow coastal water.
How big does the Fringed filefish get?
The Fringed filefish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Fringed filefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Fringed filefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Fringed filefish edible?
The Fringed filefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Fringed filefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fringed filefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Monacanthus
More from the family Monacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Fringed filefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fringed filefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.