Quick Stats
Expert Only |
Temperament
Peaceful |
Color Form
Black, White Spots |
Diet
Omnivore |
Reef Compatible
With Caution |
sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78°F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 |
Max. Size
10″ |
Family
Ostraciidae |
Minimum Tank Size
125 gallons |
|
Description
The Black Boxfish (Female) (Ostracion meleagris), also known as the Spotted Boxfish, is an intriguing and beautiful species that exhibits a black body with white spots. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, this boxfish requires special care and is recommended for expert aquarists due to its delicate nature and sensitivity to water quality. It is known to secrete toxins when stressed, which can be harmful to other tank inhabitants. This species is peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish but should be housed in a large, well-established aquarium with plenty of swimming space. Caution is advised in reef tanks as it may nip at corals and small invertebrates, making it “reef compatible with caution.” As an omnivore, the Black Boxfish should be offered a varied diet of both meaty foods such as mysis shrimp and finely chopped seafood, as well as plant-based foods like algae and marine vegetable matter. Maintaining stable water conditions and ensuring a stress-free environment is crucial for the health of this sensitive species. Approximate Purchase Size: 3″ to 5″