About Meuschenia hippocrepis (Quoy & Gaimard, 1824)
Scientific Classification and Common Name
Meuschenia hippocrepis, commonly known as the horseshoe leatherjacket, is a species of filefish that is endemic to the eastern Indian Ocean, found in temperate waters off the southern and western coasts of Australia.
Maximum Length
This species reaches an approximate maximum length of 51 cm, or 20 inches.
Etymology of Common Name
Its common name derives from a clear, distinct horseshoe-shaped marking that appears on its side.
Commercial Trade
The horseshoe leatherjacket occasionally enters the commercial aquarium trade.
Detailed Distribution Range
Its documented distribution ranges from the Houtman Abrolhos in Western Australia to Wilsons Promontory in Victoria, and extends south to Bicheno, Tasmania.
Habitat
It is commonly found around rocky reefs, as well as in deeper bays and estuaries.
