Fin's Fish Guide
The Orange filefish (Aluterus schoepfii) is a saltwater fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 61 cm.
Western Atlantic off the coasts of North, Central and South America, above seagrass beds and sandy bottoms of shallow coastal water.
Description
The orange filefish is a deep, strongly compressed fish of the family Monacanthidae (filefishes) reaching about 61 cm. The yellow-brown, mottled body has a rough, sandpaper-like skin and a small mouth with cutting teeth; the first dorsal spine stands up like a trigger on the head and can be locked. The species lives above seagrass beds and sand bottoms of the western Atlantic off the coasts of the Americas. As a herbivore it grazes seagrass, algae and small attached invertebrates. To blend among the seagrass it sometimes drifts at an angle or head-down. Because of its tough skin it is little eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Orange filefish?
The Orange filefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Deep-bodied, strongly laterally flattened filefish with rough skin and a small mouth; the first dorsal fin spine stands on the head like an upright trigger. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Orange filefish live?
The Orange filefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Western Atlantic off the coasts of North, Central and South America, above seagrass beds and sandy bottoms of shallow coastal water.
How big does the Orange filefish get?
The Orange filefish grows to a maximum of about 61 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Orange filefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Orange filefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Orange filefish edible?
The Orange filefish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aluterus
More from the family Monacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Orange filefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Orange filefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.