The Diamond Leatherjacket, Diamond Filefish, scientifically known as Rudarius excelsus, is a fascinating marine fish species characterized by its unique appearance and intriguing habits.
Description and Characteristics
The Rudarius excelsus is a small fish, reaching a maximum size of 2.5 centimeters. Its body is covered in a distinctive pattern of diamond-shaped scales, giving it its common names. The fish’s coloration can vary from a pale brown to a darker grey, often with hints of yellow or orange. This camouflage helps it blend seamlessly into its rocky habitat.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Diamond Leatherjacket, Diamond Filefish prefers a depth range between 8.0 and 25.0 meters, making it a common sight in the shallow reefs and rocky outcrops of the marine environment. This depth range places it within the Neritic zone, specifically the epipelagic (sunlit) zone. It is often found in areas with strong currents and abundant algae growth, providing both shelter and a source of food. This species is a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The species Rudarius excelsus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Tetraodontiformes, and Family: Monacanthidae. The Teleostei encompass the vast majority of bony fish species, while the Tetraodontiformes order distinguishes them by their unique teeth, often fused into a beak-like structure. The Monacanthidae family specifically denotes filefishes, which are characterized by their elongated bodies and a single, spiny dorsal fin.
Feeding
The Rudarius excelsus is a specialized feeder, primarily consuming coral polyps, making it a corallivorous species. They also supplement their diet with zooplankton, which they filter from the water column. These feeding habits help maintain the delicate balance of the reef ecosystem, contributing to the overall health and diversity of the coral communities they inhabit.
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