Box fish are medium-sized fish with a distinctive box-like shape, characterized by a rigid, triangular or hexagonal body covered in a thick, bony carapace.
The CollectA Box Fish measures: 2.4" L x 1.5" W x 1.4" H.
CollectA Box Fish #88788 Review:
An adorable miniature version of the unique box fish. Vibrantly painted to simulate the natural bright appearance that warns predators of their misfortune if they attempt to prey upon them. Tiny little fins and mouth are well made for such fine detail. Overall a great addition to any aquatic collection.
Box Fish Information:
Boxfish, also known as trunkfish or cowfish, are unique and intriguing marine fish that belong to the family Ostraciidae. These small to medium-sized fish derive their name from their distinctive box-like shape, characterized by a rigid, triangular or hexagonal body covered in a thick, bony carapace.
One of the most striking features of boxfish is their body shape. They possess a compact, box-shaped body with sharp edges and rigid angles. This body structure is protected by a hard carapace made up of fused bony plates, offering them excellent defense against potential threats.
In addition to their remarkable shape, boxfish display a wide range of vibrant colors. Their bodies are adorned with shades of yellow, orange, blue, green, and black, often arranged in eye-catching patterns such as spots, stripes, or intricate designs. Each species may exhibit its own unique coloration.
Boxfish have small pectoral and pelvic fins, while their dorsal and anal fins are elongated. These fins allow them to move through the water with precision and agility, despite being relatively slow swimmers. They can often be found hovering or drifting above the seafloor in tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, primarily inhabiting coral reefs and rocky areas.
These fish have a specialized mouth equipped with strong teeth, which enables them to feed on a variety of prey, including small invertebrates and algae. While they primarily dwell near the seafloor, their feeding habits make them versatile in their choice of diet.
One of the most fascinating aspects of boxfish is their defense mechanism. They possess a toxin called ostracitoxin, which is present in their skin. When threatened or injured, they can release this toxin as a defense mechanism, deterring potential predators from attacking them. This toxic nature serves as a protective shield.
The size of boxfish varies among species. While some boxfish reach only a few inches in length, others can grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) or more. Their size, combined with their unique appearance, makes them captivating additions to marine aquariums. However, it's essential to provide them with specific care in captivity, as they have particular dietary requirements and may be sensitive to water quality.
Part of the Sea Life Series by CollectA.
Hand Painted. Made of durable synthetic material.
Product Code: #88788
by CollectA
