Description

Also known as Cinhalese Leatherjacket, Kochi Filefish, Kochi Leatherjacket, Leatherjacket.

Found singly, over deep, muddy substrates, along coastal reefs, sometimes drifting with large sargassum rafts, in deep waters off-shore.
They feed on benthic invertebrates and zooplankton.
Length - 15cm
Depth - 1-30m
Widespread Western Pacific

Filefish can alter their colour and pattern to match their surrounds and so deter predators.
Although closely related to the Triggerfish, their "trigger spine" cannot be locked into place. Ref: https://www.fishbase.se/summary/7978