Common name: Roughskin trunkfish

General information

The Rough Box Crab, scientifically known as Ostracion trachys, is a fascinating species of box crab found in the Caribbean Sea. This species is known for its distinctive, heavily calcified carapace that provides it with excellent protection against predators. The carapace is adorned with numerous tubercles and ridges, giving it a rough texture, hence the name. The Rough Box Crab is a nocturnal creature, often hiding during the day and emerging at night to feed.

Care

In the aquarium, Rough Box Crabs require a well-established environment with plenty of hiding places and a sandy substrate to mimic their natural habitat. They are scavengers by nature and will feed on a variety of meaty foods, including fish, mollusks, and detritus. It is important to ensure that they are not competing with more aggressive feeders and that they receive adequate nutrition.

Reproduction

Little is known about the reproductive habits of Ostracion trachys in the wild or in captivity. However, like many marine invertebrates, they are likely to have a planktonic larval stage that disperses with ocean currents before settling to the bottom as juveniles.

Habitat

The Rough Box Crab is typically found in the tropical waters of the Caribbean Sea. They prefer reef environments and are often associated with sandy bottoms and rubble areas where they can easily burrow and hide. Their range of depth is not well documented, but they are generally associated with shallower reef areas.