The Tasselled Leatherjacket, Weedy Filefish, Weedy File-Fish, Leafy Leatherjacket, Prickly Leatherjacket, Prickly Leather-Jacket, Leafy Filefish (Chaetodermis penicilligerus) is a distinctive fish species known for its unique appearance and intriguing behavior. This species is commonly encountered in various marine ecosystems, showcasing its adaptability and prevalence within its natural habitat.
Description & Characteristics
The Chaetodermis penicilligerus is characterized by its elongated, compressed body, typically reaching a maximum size of 31.0 cm. Its body is covered in numerous small, prickly scales, resembling a leafy texture, contributing to its common names. The coloration of this fish varies, often displaying a combination of browns, greens, and yellows, providing excellent camouflage within its preferred environments.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Chaetodermis penicilligerus, also known as the Tasselled Leatherjacket, Weedy Filefish, Weedy File-Fish, Leafy Leatherjacket, Prickly Leatherjacket, Prickly Leather-Jacket, or Leafy Filefish, primarily inhabits shallow reefs and rocky shores, with a depth range of 2.0 to 25.0 meters. This species is often found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the tropical and subtropical marine zones, showcasing its affinity for these warm-water environments.
Taxonomy
The species Chaetodermis penicilligerus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Tetraodontiformes, and Family: Monacanthidae. This classification places it within a group of fish known for their unique body shapes and specialized feeding habits. The Monacanthidae family, specifically, encompasses a diverse array of filefishes, characterized by their single, prominent dorsal spine.
Feeding
The Chaetodermis penicilligerus, also known as the Tasselled Leatherjacket, Weedy Filefish, Weedy File-Fish, Leafy Leatherjacket, Prickly Leatherjacket, Prickly Leather-Jacket, or Leafy Filefish, exhibits a varied diet, primarily consisting of algae and small invertebrates. These include brine shrimps, flakes, frozen food (large sort), krill, mysis, and nori-algae. Their diet reflects their opportunistic feeding habits and their adaptability to a variety of food sources.
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