Spotted Boxfish
NameSpotted Boxfish
Scientific NameOstracion meleagris
Common NamesSpotted Boxfish, Whitespotted Boxfish, Blue Boxfish, Black Boxfish
FamilyOstraciidae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Red Sea, East Africa, Hawaii, Japan, Australia
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)100
Max Size (Inches)8
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTangs, Large Angelfish, Hawkfish, Lionfish, Triggerfish (cautiously)
Description
The Spotted Boxfish is a distinctive marine fish known for its box-like body and vibrant coloration, with males often displaying blue bodies with yellow spots and females/juveniles having black bodies with white spots. They are slow-moving but can release a potent toxin (ostracitoxin) when stressed, which can be fatal to other tank inhabitants. This species requires a large, well-established aquarium with stable water parameters.
