Fin's Fish Guide
The Whitespotted pygmy filefish (Rudarius ercodes) is a saltwater fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea (South), Viet Nam
Description
The Whitespotted pygmy filefish is a small filefish (Monacanthidae) from coastal waters of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed body with a rough, file-like skin and an erectable first dorsal spine. As a slow swimmer it shelters among seagrass, weed and coral and snaps at small invertebrates, algae and zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Whitespotted pygmy filefish?
The Whitespotted pygmy filefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Whitespotted pygmy filefish live?
The Whitespotted pygmy filefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea (South), Viet Nam
How big does the Whitespotted pygmy filefish get?
The Whitespotted pygmy filefish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Whitespotted pygmy filefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Whitespotted pygmy filefish 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rudarius
More from the family Monacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Whitespotted pygmy filefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whitespotted pygmy filefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.