- Check the sub-map for the specimen information files -
FILEFISH - MONACANTHIDAE
Filefish are very closely related to the triggerfish and also have a long spine in the first dorsal fin. Their skin has a rough sandpaper or file-like surface, which is where the English name comes from. This genus comes in many shapes and colors, depending on their habitat. Filefish are not very good swimmers, which is why they mostly try to blend into their surrounding. They swim or hover by making wavy movements with their second dorsal and anal fins. All filefish have a small mouth with strong teeth. Some feed solely on coral polyps while others also eat crustaceans, worms, small fish and algae. Filefish prefer protected shallow coral reefs. No information about their reproduction is available at present.
- Check the sub-map for the specimen information files -
