Family
Common name: Boxfish
Scientific name: Ostraciidae
The Ostraciidae family, commonly known as boxfish, trunkfish, and cowfish, comprises a group of bony fish recognized for their distinctive box-shaped bodies. These fish are encased in a hard, bony carapace which provides protection but limits their mobility. They are found in tropical and subtropical reefs around the world and are known for their unique swimming motion. Ostraciids have a specialized diet that includes algae, sponges, and small invertebrates. They are generally peaceful but can release toxins when stressed, which can be harmful to other tank inhabitants. Their unique appearance and behavior make them a fascinating addition to a marine aquarium, but they require experienced care.
- Common name: Island CowfishScientific name: Acanthostracion notacanthus
Common name: Honeycomb CowfishScientific name: Acanthostracion polygonius
Common name: Scrawled CowfishScientific name: Acanthostracion quadricornis- Common name: TrunkfishScientific name: Lactophrys bicaudalis
- Common name: Buffalo trunkfishScientific name: Lactophrys trigonus
Common name: Smooth TrunkfishScientific name: Lactophrys triqueter
Common name: Longhorn CowfishScientific name: Lactoria cornuta- Common name: Transparent boxfishScientific name: Lactoria diaphana
- Common name: Thornback cowfishScientific name: Lactoria fornasini
- Common name: Yellow boxfishScientific name: Ostracion cubicus
- Common name: Bluetail trunkfishScientific name: Ostracion cyanurus
- Common name: bluespotted boxfishScientific name: Ostracion immaculatus
Common name: Spotted BoxfishScientific name: Ostracion meleagris- Common name: Horn-nosed boxfishScientific name: Ostracion rhinorhynchos
- Common name: Reticulate boxfishScientific name: Ostracion solorensis
- Common name: Roughskin trunkfishScientific name: Ostracion trachys
- Common name: Whitley's boxScientific name: Ostracion whitleyi
- Common name: Shortnose boxfishScientific name: Rhynchostracion nasus