Care Level: Expert Only
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Color Form: Blue, Green, Tan, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Reef Compatible: With Caution
Water Conditions: sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4
Max. Size: 1' 6"
Venomous: Poisonous When Stressed or Dies
Family: Ostraciidae
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons

The Cubicus Boxfish is also referred to as the Yellow Boxfish, Polka Dot Boxfish, or Cube Boxfish. The juvenile form is easily identifiable as having a yellow box-shaped body with brown spots. As an adult, the yellow will fade and become brown. The Cubicus Boxfish is sometimes confused with the Longhorn Cowfish, Lactoria cornuta which is occasionally also called the Yellow Boxfish.

This is a very difficult fish to keep in the aquarium setting by any other than the most experienced aquarist. It should have a minimum of a 125 gallon tank. Use caution if placing the Spotted Boxfish in a reef tank as they will often nibble at tubeworms. If stressed, the Cubicus Boxfish releases a poisonous substance, called ostracitoxin, from its mucous glands which will kill other fish in the tank very quickly.

Very little success has been achieved in breeding these fish in an aquarium.

When first introduced, the Cubicus Boxfish prefers a diet of live brine shrimp or bloodworms. Once acclimated, the diet should include chopped squid, clams, mussels, and herbivore preparations.

Approximate Purchase Size: Tiny: 1" to 2-1/4" Small: 2-1/4" to 3"; Medium: 3" to 4; Large: 4" to 5"

Caution: This species secretes or releases toxins when stressed or injured that may kill fish in the aquarium. Petstore.ae/BPK cannot accept responsibility for any loss that may occur should this animal poison the aquarium.

Please note: We guarantee that ALL aquaria species we offer will arrive alive and in good condition. However, because of the increased level of care required for this particular species, it has been designated as "Expert Only." This species is recommended only for the expert aquarist, zoo, or research institution. “Expert Only” aquatic life is exempt from our extended guarantee after their arrival.

Please Note: Due to variations within species, your item may not look identical to the image provided. Approximate size range may also vary between individual specimen.

Credits: https://www.liveaquaria.com/

Cubicus Boxfish - (Ostracion cubicus)

Have a question?