- Check the sub-map for the specimen information files -
BOXFISH - OSTRACIDAE
These odd-shaped boxfish have a triangular, square or rounded carapace (hard shell) underneath their skin which has holes for the mouth, eyes, fins and gill openings. They are slow swimmers but will use their tail fin if they need an ‘extra kick’. They use their dorsal, anal and pectoral fins to hover and rotate like helicopters. Boxfish feed on benthic invertebrates like worms, tunicates, sponges and algae. When looking for food, they often blow the sand away to look for hidden delicacies. On places where certain species are abundant, territorial males have harems from around three to four females. Their territory is around five hundred square meters in size. Mating happens during sunset when they meet at a central spot in their territory. When the time is right they both swim upwards and spawn after a short ritual. They then swim quickly back to the reef for protection.
- Check the sub-map for the specimen information files -
