Common name: Horn-nosed boxfish
General information
The Humpback Turretfish, scientifically known as Ostracion rhinorhynchos, is a distinctive boxfish species known for its unique body shape and coloration. It has a humpbacked appearance and a protruding snout, which gives it a camel-like profile, hence the alternative common name, Camel Cowfish. This species is not as commonly kept as some other boxfish due to its size and specific care requirements.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 25 cm (10″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs hiding spots & stable water
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. meaty foods & algae
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at slow-moving fish
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPufferfishTetraodontiformes
- FamilyBoxfishOstraciidae
- GenusBoxfishOstracion
- SpeciesHorn-nosed boxfishOstracion rhinorhynchos Bleeker, 1851
- SynonymsOstracion rhinorhynchus Bleeker, 1851Ostracion rhinorhynchus bleeker , 1852Ostracion rhynorhyncus Bleeker, 1851Rhynchostracion rhinorhynchos (Bleeker, 1851)Rhynchostracion rhinorhynchus (Bleeker, 1851)
Care
Humpback Turretfish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of room to swim and stable water conditions. They are not recommended for beginners due to their sensitivity to water quality and potential to release toxins when stressed or if they perish in the aquarium. A varied diet of meaty foods, including shrimp, squid, and clams, is essential for their health.
Reproduction
In the wild, Ostracion rhinorhynchos has a complex mating ritual involving courtship displays. Breeding in captivity is rare and not well-documented, making it a challenge for aquarists.
Habitat
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Humpback Turretfish are found in coral reefs and sandy bottoms, often at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 50 meters. They are solitary creatures and have a wide distribution from the east coast of Africa to the western Pacific Ocean.