Common name: Bridled burrfish
General information
The Bridled Burrfish, scientifically known as Chilomycterus antennatus, is a distinctive species of boxfish known for its unique appearance and defensive capabilities. This species is characterized by its rounded body, covered in spines that can be erected when the fish feels threatened, providing an effective deterrent against predators. The Bridled Burrfish is not as commonly kept as some other marine species, but it can be a fascinating addition to larger fish-only systems where its unique behavior and appearance can be appreciated.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 30 cm (1′)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Handle with care due to spines
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. meaty foods & algae
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at or eat invertebrates
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially when threatened
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPufferfishTetraodontiformes
- FamilyPorcupinefishDiodontidae
- GenusBurrfishChilomycterus
- SpeciesBridled burrfishChilomycterus antennatus (Cuvier, 1816)
- SynonymsCyclichthys antennatus (Cuvier, 1816)Diodon antennatus Cuvier, 1816
Care
Bridled Burrfish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of room to swim and turn, as their rigid bodies are not as flexible as those of other fish. They are generally peaceful but may nip at or consume smaller tank mates, so they should be housed with similarly sized or larger fish. They are omnivores and will accept a varied diet including meaty foods and some plant matter. Care should be taken when handling this species, as their spines can cause injury.
Reproduction
In the wild, Bridled Burrfish are known to release their eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. There is little information available on breeding this species in captivity, and it is not commonly done by hobbyists.
Habitat
Bridled Burrfish are found in the Western Atlantic, from North Carolina and Bermuda to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They inhabit seagrass beds, reefs, and rocky areas, typically at depths of 2 to 50 meters. In the aquarium, they require a habitat with plenty of hiding places and room to swim.