About Amanses scopas (Cuvier, 1829)
Taxonomy and Common Names
Amanses scopas, commonly known as the broom filefish, is a species of filefish. It is the only currently living species in the genus Amanses, which belongs to the family Monacanthidae. In Australia, it is also called the brush-sided leatherjacket, and on Christmas Island it is referred to as the broom leatherjacket.
Distribution and Habitat Type
The broom filefish is a non-harmful tropical reef fish found in the Red Sea and the Indo-Pacific oceans.
Size
This species can grow to a length of 20 centimeters (7.9 inches).
Body Coloration
Its body is brown, marked with up to 12 narrow dark brown crossbars.
Fin Coloration
The caudal fin is dark brown, while the soft dorsal, anal, and pectoral fins are pale in color.
Sexual Dimorphism
Males have many long spines in the area in front of the caudal peduncle; in the same location, females have a toothbrush-like mass of setae.
Specific Habitat
Broom filefish live on semi-protected seaward reefs, in areas with a mix of sand, rubble, and coral heads.
