Fin's Fish Guide
The Island cowfish (Acanthostracion notacanthus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ostraciidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Africa: Angola, Ghana, Azores Is., St Helena, Sao Tome Princ., Ascension I.
Description
The island cowfish is a boxfish (Ostraciidae) from the eastern Atlantic, around island groups such as the Azores and Cape Verde. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a body encased in a stiff, angular bony armour, with a pair of horn-like spines above the eyes. It swims slowly with fanning fins over sand and reef bottoms and snaps at bottom invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans, though it can release a defensive toxin into the water when stressed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Island cowfish?
The Island cowfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly yellow-gold.
Where does the Island cowfish live?
The Island cowfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Angola, Ghana, Azores Is., St Helena, Sao Tome Princ., Ascension I.
How big does the Island cowfish get?
The Island cowfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Island cowfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Island cowfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Island cowfish and live in the same waters.
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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
Want the complete picture on the Island cowfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Island cowfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.