Dotterel Filefish

Aluterus heudelotii

The Dotterel Filefish is a member of the Monacanthidae family, known for its distinctive body shape that is short and deep. It can be identified by its two dorsal spines and the absence of anal spines, with 36 to 41 dorsal soft rays and 39 to 44 anal soft rays. This species can grow up to 45 cm in total length, though it is more commonly found at around 30 cm. Divers can spot this fish in the western Atlantic from Massachusetts to Brazil, and in the eastern Atlantic from Mauritania to Angola. The Dotterel Filefish is typically found in shallow marine environments, preferring depths between 10 and 100 meters, though it can occasionally be found as deep as 2000 meters. It inhabits seagrass beds, sandy and muddy bottoms, where it feeds primarily on algae and seagrasses. This herbivorous diet supports its role in the ecosystem as a grazer. During a dive, encountering the Dotterel Filefish offers a glimpse into its slow-moving and solitary behavior. It is harmless to humans and poses no threat. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.