Boxfish

Boxfish, belonging to the family Ostraciidae, are a unique and fascinating group of marine fish that are well-loved by many reefkeeping hobbyists. These fish are known for their distinctive box-like shape and rigid, bony carapace, which gives them a very peculiar and interesting appearance. Boxfish come in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns, making them a visually appealing addition to any marine aquarium.

One of the key traits of Boxfish is their ability to secrete a toxic substance called ostracitoxin when stressed or threatened. This toxin can be harmful to other tank inhabitants, so it's important to house Boxfish in a well-maintained and stable environment to minimize stress. Despite this, Boxfish are generally peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive tank mates.

Boxfish are relatively slow swimmers and prefer a tank with plenty of hiding spots and moderate water flow. They feed on a variety of foods, including algae, small invertebrates, and prepared marine foods. It's essential to ensure they receive a balanced diet to maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

Due to their unique care requirements and potential for releasing toxins, Boxfish are recommended for intermediate to advanced hobbyists who have experience in maintaining stable water conditions and monitoring fish behavior closely.

1. Common name: Island Cowfish

   Scientific name: Acanthostracion notacanthus
2. 
   Common name: Honeycomb Cowfish

   Scientific name: Acanthostracion polygonius
3. 
   Common name: Scrawled Cowfish

   Scientific name: Acanthostracion quadricornis
4. 
   Common name: White-barred Boxfish

   Scientific name: Anoplocapros lenticularis
5. 
   Common name: Striped cowfish

   Scientific name: Aracana aurita
6. 
   Common name: Ornate Cowfish

   Scientific name: Aracana ornata
7. 
   Common name: Tasselled leatherjacket

   Scientific name: Chaetodermis penicilligerus
8. 
   Common name: Birdbeak burrfish

   Scientific name: Cyclichthys orbicularis
9. 
   Common name: Trunkfish

   Scientific name: Lactophrys bicaudalis
10. 
    Common name: Buffalo trunkfish

    Scientific name: Lactophrys trigonus
11. 
    Common name: Smooth Trunkfish

    Scientific name: Lactophrys triqueter
12. 
    Common name: Longhorn Cowfish

    Scientific name: Lactoria cornuta
13. 
    Common name: Transparent boxfish

    Scientific name: Lactoria diaphana
14. 
    Common name: Thornback cowfish

    Scientific name: Lactoria fornasini
15. 
    Common name: Yellow boxfish

    Scientific name: Ostracion cubicus
16. 
    Common name: Bluetail trunkfish

    Scientific name: Ostracion cyanurus
17. 
    Common name: bluespotted boxfish

    Scientific name: Ostracion immaculatus
18. 
    Common name: Spotted Boxfish

    Scientific name: Ostracion meleagris
19. 
    Common name: Horn-nosed boxfish

    Scientific name: Ostracion rhinorhynchos
20. 
    Common name: Reticulate boxfish

    Scientific name: Ostracion solorensis
21. Common name: Roughskin trunkfish

    Scientific name: Ostracion trachys
22. 
    Common name: Whitley's box

    Scientific name: Ostracion whitleyi
23. Common name: Andaman Mimic Filefish

    Scientific name: Paraluteres arqat
24. 
    Common name: Mimic filefish

    Scientific name: Paraluteres prionurus
25. 
    Common name: Shortnose boxfish

    Scientific name: Rhynchostracion nasus
26. Common name: common decorator crab

    Scientific name: Schizophrys aspera