Harlequin Filefish
Oxymonacanthus longirostris
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 1–35 m
- Max size: 12 cm
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: VU
Bright orange and patterned, this filefish feeds on nothing but the polyps of Acropora coral, picking at them through the day with its tube shaped snout. Pairs stay together and nest near dead coral bases, and its strict diet has left it threatened as reefs decline.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Tetraodontiformes › Monacanthidae › Oxymonacanthus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 220063.
FAQ
- How deep does the Harlequin Filefish live?
- The Harlequin Filefish (Oxymonacanthus longirostris) is typically found at 1–35 m.
- Is the Harlequin Filefish dangerous to divers?
- The Harlequin Filefish is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Harlequin Filefish get?
- The Harlequin Filefish grows to about 12 cm.