Aluterus schoepfi, Family Balistidae (Leatherbacks)
Grows up to 24". Color varies, usually brown with an orange tinge due to tiny orange spots, patterned with irregular blotches. Sandpapery texture to the skin and tough hide, like the triggerfish that are more commonly seen in this area. Dorsal spine thin and bent. Body in adults deep, with narrow tail. Sharp slope from dorsal to mouth. Found in shallow muddy bottoms with seagrass. Ranges: Nova Scotia, n. Gulf of Mex. To Brazil. Worldwide filefish in temperate and tropical waters.