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(ostracion cubicus)
Saltwater
Known also by the names Cube Boxfish, Polka Dot Boxfish and Cubicus Boxfish, it is often confused for the Longhorned Boxfish. Native to the Indo-Pacific Oceans and the Red Sea, this is a popular, yet rare aquarium catch. As a juvenile, its body is yellow with brown spots and shaped more like a box. In adulthood, the yellow coloration fades to a brownish-yellow with blue/brown dots. This venomous fish can destroy an entire aquarium system if it becomes stressed or happens to die. In either occasion, it emits a toxin called ostracitoxin, which is deadly even to other boxfish. A fish best for expert aquarists.
Size: sm 1/2" to 1"; med. 3/4" to 1 1/2"; can get up to 18" in the wild.
No. in Tank: ONE!
Tank: min. 150 gallon
Temperament: Peaceful, yet may act aggressive with other fish
Food: (Omnivore) When first introduced feed this fish live brine shrimp and bloodworms. Once acclimated to its environment, a varied diet of chopped squids, clams, mussels and a prepared herbivore feed can be given. A slow eater, it should not have any tank-mated that are aggressive eaters.
Light: Medium
Adaptation: Needs lots of live rock, hiding places and room to swim. It should be the first fish introduced to the tank whenever possible.
Compatibility: Does best in a community tank with peaceful, docile, non-aggressive eaters (bottom feeders are great). In reef systems will nip at the tubeworms. Do not house with cleaner fish.
Venomous: When becomes stressed or dies, will release a toxin called ostracitoxin from its skin, which can kill the other fish, including other boxfish. If becomes stressed or dies, it should be removed from the aquarium as fast as possible. Keep activated carbon on hand. When introduced through the filtration system, it will absorb the toxin from the water. Additionally, exchange 50% of the aquarium water.
**EXPERTS ONLY
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