SCIENCE IN PICS: Radial Filefish Hides in Soft Coral

A well-camouflaged radial filefish among the feeding tentacles of a xeno coral at Manado in Sulawesi, Indonesia. (Matthew Oldfield)

The radial filefish, Acreichthys radiatus, is also known as the flower-coral leatherjacket, and is widespread in the Indo-Pacific ocean.

It feeds on invertebrates and algae, and lives near sponges and soft corals on coastal reefs and in lagoons.

This solitary species can reach up to 7 centimeters (nearly 3 inches) in length and lives down to depths of about 12 meters (about 40 feet).

Filefish can change their colors and patterns to blend in with their environment and avoid predators.

This photo was taken at Bunaken Marine Park, a popular dive destination in Indonesia well-known for its beautiful reefs and marine biodiversity.

Matthew Oldfield is a freelance photographer based in Bali, Indonesia, specializing in editorial and documentary images from both above and below the waves. He works primarily with charities, NGO’s, and other organizations working to conserve the environment, endangered species, and disappearing cultures.

Matthew is on Twitter @matthewophoto. More of his photos can be found at matthew-oldfield-photography.com

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