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Fish Guide |  |
Family: Ostraciidae (Boxfish)
Natural Range: Indian and Pacific Oceans
Depth: 3 to 918 ft. Size: 18 in. Jumps: Possible Space: 100+ gal.
Reef Safe: Caution Care Level: Difficult Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Algae, invertebrates, mollusks, sponges, bristle worms, crustaceans, small fish
Natural History: The Yellow Boxfish inhabits sheltered reef zones such as lagoons. It is found as solitary individuals - juveniles frequent shelters and crevices such as Acropora corals. It blows sand to reveal the prey it eats. It feeds prolifically on algae.
Husbandry: The Yellow Cubicus is generally not aggressive with other species but will likely be aggressive with its own in an aquarium. If it dies, it must be removed immediately or its skin toxins will be released into the aquarium resulting in tank collapse. When fed, food should float in the water column and not at the surface to prevent it from gulping air. Seaweed (Nori or Spirulina) should be used to supplement its omnivorous diet.
AKA: Yellow Boxfish