Aluterus monoceros
The leatherjackets and filefishes, members of the large family Monacanthidae, are nearly all inshore or estuarine fishes. However, some, including the unicorn leatherjacket, have entered the pelagic environment via their habit of associating with floating objects such as logs and kelp.
Presumably as a result of this life-style, this is one of very few species of leatherjacket that has a global distribution. It is found on both sides of all three major oceans, and around a number of oceanic islands. Juveniles often associate with jellyfish, while adults commonly associate with floating weeds, algae and debris.
The unicorn leatherjacket can be identified by its upturned mouth and its dull gray to brown color covered on the dorsal surface by numerous small brown spots.
This is a relatively large monocanthid, growing to about 75cm and a weight of at least 2kg.
