Roughskin Boxfish
NameRoughskin Boxfish
Scientific NameOstracion cubicus
Common NamesCube Boxfish, Yellow Boxfish, Polka Dot Boxfish, Boxfish, Roughskin Boxfish
FamilyOstraciidae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Red Sea, East Africa, Japan, Australia, French Polynesia
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)18
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTangs, Large Angelfish, Triggerfish (cautiously), Groupers (cautiously), Lionfish, Moray Eels
Description
The Roughskin Boxfish, also known as the Cube Boxfish, is a distinctive marine fish recognized by its box-like body and dramatic color changes from juvenile to adult. Juveniles are typically black with white spots, while adults become yellow with black spots. This species requires a large, well-established aquarium and careful consideration of tankmates due to its potential to release toxins when stressed.
