Blue-spotted Boxfish
NameBlue-spotted Boxfish
Scientific NameOstracion meleagris
Common NamesWhitespotted Boxfish, Spotted Boxfish, Black Boxfish
FamilyOstraciidae
OriginIndo-Pacific
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)8
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTangs, Large peaceful wrasses, Clownfish, Damsels (non-aggressive species), Angelfish (larger, peaceful species), Hawkfish
Description
The Blue-spotted Boxfish is a distinctive and charming marine fish known for its unique box-like body shape and vibrant coloration, with males displaying black bodies covered in white spots and females/juveniles having a brown body with white spots. They are generally peaceful but can release a potent toxin (ostracitoxin) into the water when stressed or threatened, which can be fatal to other tank inhabitants. Due to their specialized diet and the potential for toxin release, they require a well-established aquarium with stable parameters and careful tankmate selection.
