Fin's Fish Guide
The Ornate cowfish (Aracana ornata) is a saltwater fish of the family Aracanidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The ornate cowfish is a boxfish from the eastern Indian Ocean, endemic along southern Australia. The species grows to about 15 cm and has an angular body in a bony carapace; males are very colourful with blue and yellow lines and spots on a yellowish-brown ground, females have a striking banded pattern. It lives on seagrass beds and rocky reefs and eats small bottom invertebrates. Because of its rigid carapace it swims slowly with sculling fins. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ornate cowfish?
The Ornate cowfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a marbled pattern. Bony armour; strong colour difference between the sexes
Where does the Ornate cowfish live?
The Ornate cowfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Australia
How big does the Ornate cowfish get?
The Ornate cowfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Ornate cowfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ornate 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.
Is the Ornate cowfish edible?
The Ornate cowfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aracana
More from the family Aracanidae
Want the complete picture on the Ornate cowfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ornate cowfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.