The whitespotted filefish (Cantherhines dumerilii) is a distinctive marine species recognized by its laterally compressed body, leathery skin, and characteristic white spots scattered across a brownish to grayish background. This species is typically found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting coral reefs and rocky coastal areas. While not a primary target for large-scale commercial fisheries, whitespotted filefish are harvested in small quantities for local consumption, aquarium trade, and sometimes as bycatch. The top countries involved in the fishing and export of whitespotted filefish include Indonesia, the Philippines, and Japan, where artisanal and small-scale fisheries play a significant role. In these nations, the species is valued both for its culinary uses and as an ornamental fish, contributing modestly to the local fishing economy and supporting coastal livelihoods.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.