Common name: common decorator crab

General information

The Humpback Turretfish, Schizophrys aspera, is a distinctive and fascinating species known for its unique body shape and armor-like bony plates. This species is part of the boxfish family, which is characterized by their box-shaped bodies and the ability of some species to release toxins when stressed. The Humpback Turretfish has a protruding forehead, giving it a humpbacked appearance, and its body is covered in hexagonal plate-like scales that provide protection from predators.

Care

Humpback Turretfish require a spacious tank 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 if stressed. A varied diet of meaty foods, including shrimp, squid, and clams, is essential for their health. It's important to avoid housing them with aggressive tank mates that could cause stress.

Reproduction

Little is known about the breeding habits of Schizophrys aspera in the wild or captivity. They are presumed to be pelagic spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs.

Habitat

The Humpback Turretfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Samoa, and north to southern Japan. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often found at depths ranging from 1 to 50 meters. They prefer areas with sandy bottoms where they can forage for invertebrates.