Fin's Fish Guide
The Horse-shoe leatherjacket (Meuschenia hippocrepis) is a saltwater fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 51 cm.
Description
The horseshoe leatherjacket is a filefish (Monacanthidae) from temperate coastal waters of southern Australia. The species grows to about 51 cm and has a deep, strongly compressed body with a rough skin, a small beak-like mouth and a conspicuous horseshoe-shaped mark on the tail base. The first dorsal spine is modified into an erectable trigger. It lives around rocky reefs and kelp beds and eats weed, sponges and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Horse-shoe leatherjacket?
The Horse-shoe leatherjacket has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Horseshoe marking on the caudal peduncle; erectile dorsal fin spine
Where does the Horse-shoe leatherjacket live?
The Horse-shoe leatherjacket lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Australia
How big does the Horse-shoe leatherjacket get?
The Horse-shoe leatherjacket grows to a maximum of about 51 cm.
Is the Horse-shoe leatherjacket dangerous to humans?
No, the Horse-shoe 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.
Is the Horse-shoe leatherjacket edible?
The Horse-shoe leatherjacket is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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 Horse-shoe leatherjacket?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Horse-shoe leatherjacket is one of 12,519 species in the app.