Rapanui filefish – Cantherhines rapanui

The Rapanui Filefish, scientifically known as Cantherhines rapanui, is a fascinating fish species inhabiting the tropical and subtropical waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean. This filefish is a relatively small species, reaching a maximum size of 20.0 cm. It is often observed in shallow waters, with a depth range of 0.0 to 20.0 meters, predominantly inhabiting the neritic zone, the marine environment extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.

Description & Characteristics

The Cantherhines rapanui is easily recognizable by its unique, somewhat boxy body shape. Its body is flattened laterally, with a distinct, almost square-shaped snout. This species boasts a vibrant coloration, typically displaying a range of shades from yellow to orange, often with dark spots or blotches scattered across its body. The Cantherhines rapanui has a single, prominent dorsal fin situated towards the middle of its back, and its caudal fin is rounded.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Cantherhines rapanui prefers shallow, rocky reefs and seagrass beds as its primary habitat. It can be found near the coast in various marine zones, including the intertidal zone, the area between high and low tides, and the subtidal zone, the region of the seabed below the low tide mark. This fish’s preference for these environments is linked to the abundance of food sources they offer.

Taxonomy

The Cantherhines rapanui belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Tetraodontiformes, and Family: Monacanthidae. This family, commonly known as the filefishes, is characterized by their unique flattened bodies and sharp, file-like teeth. These fish are often brightly colored and can be found in diverse marine environments worldwide.

Feeding

The Cantherhines rapanui is an omnivorous species, feeding on a variety of food sources, including algae, phytoplankton, sponges, and zooplankton. This diverse diet helps ensure that the Cantherhines rapanui can thrive in its environment, as it is not dependent on any single food source. Their diet is important for maintaining a healthy and balanced ecosystem in the reef environments they inhabit.