The Scrawled cowfish (Acanthostracion quadricornis) is a saltwater fish of the family Ostraciidae that grows up to 55 cm.
Description
The scrawled cowfish is an angular boxfish of the family Ostraciidae reaching about 55 cm. The body is enclosed in a rigid, bony carapace, with openings for the mouth, eyes, fins and tail; above the eyes stand two horn-like spines, hence 'cowfish'. Over the yellow-green carapace runs a pattern of blue scrawled lines and spots. Because the carapace makes the body rigid, the fish swims slowly with fluttering fins. The species lives near seagrass beds, reefs and rocky bottoms of shallow coastal water from the USA to Brazil. It eats sea anemones, crustaceans, shellfish, worms and seagrass. When stressed it can release a skin toxin that, in an enclosed space, can kill other fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Scrawled cowfish?
The Scrawled cowfish has an irregular in shape body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the Scrawled cowfish live?
The Scrawled cowfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds.
How big does the Scrawled cowfish get?
The Scrawled cowfish grows to a maximum of about 55 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Scrawled cowfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Scrawled cowfish is harmless to humans.
Is the Scrawled cowfish edible?
The Scrawled cowfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Acanthostracion
More from the family Ostraciidae
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