THE STEINHART AQUARIUM - Gulf of Guinea Science ...

Fish Families 13
Most are solitary, diurnal predators that feed on various invertebrates. The upper jaw contains
both sharp teeth for capturing prey and flattened, plate-like teeth used to crush shells, or an
occasional careless human finger!
OSTRACIIDAE (BOXFISHES)
14 genera 33 species
Found in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific oceans mostly in tropical or subtropical waters,
boxfishes are named for the armor-like carapace of bony polygonal plates that encompass the
head and body, like a shell. This body covering has gaps for the mouth, eyes, gill openings, anus,
and fins when present. Pelvic fins are absent and the upper jaw is non-protrusible. Ridges on the
surface of the plates are often armed with prominent spines.
These slow moving, diurnal species feed on a variety of small sessile invertebrates and algae,
depending on their armor for protection. Some species secrete a highly toxic substance which may
be lethal to other fishes and even themselves if confined to small areas in an aquarium.
Species studied to date are haremic. A dominant male defends a territory containing females and
subordinate males. Other common names are trunkfishes and cowfishes.