Humpback Turretfish
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/19373621@N04">Bernd</a> (CC BY 2.0)
NameHumpback Turretfish
Scientific NameTetrosomus gibbosus
Common NamesHumpback Turretfish, Humpback Boxfish, Camel Cowfish
FamilyOstraciidae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Red Sea, Egypt
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)125
Max Size (Inches)12
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesLarge Angelfish, Tangs, Groupers, Eels, Lionfish
Description
The Humpback Turretfish is a distinctive marine fish known for its box-like body and prominent hump on its back. It possesses a unique defense mechanism, releasing a potent toxin (ostracitoxin) into the water when stressed, which can be lethal to other fish in a closed aquarium system. This species requires a large, well-established saltwater aquarium with stable parameters and plenty of hiding spots.
