Common name: Striped burrfish

General information

The Striped Burrfish, Chilomycterus schoepfii, is a distinctive species known for its unique appearance and defensive capabilities. It belongs to the family Diodontidae, which includes pufferfish and porcupinefish. This species is characterized by its ability to inflate its body and display long, sharp spines when threatened, a defense mechanism that deters predators.

Care

Striped Burrfish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of room to swim and a secure lid to prevent escape. They are not reef-safe as they may nibble on or damage corals and invertebrates. These fish are best kept with larger, non-aggressive tank mates that won't provoke their defensive spines. A varied diet of meaty foods, such as shrimp, squid, and clams, is essential for their health.

Reproduction

In the wild, Striped Burrfish reproduce by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but providing a stress-free environment with optimal water conditions may encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

Striped Burrfish are found in the Western Atlantic, from Massachusetts to Florida in the United States, and down to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They inhabit seagrass beds, reefs, and estuaries, often hiding among the seagrass or rubble during the day.