Fin's Fish Guide
The Triangular boxfish (Tetrosomus concatenatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ostraciidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The triangular boxfish is a striking boxfish from the Indo-West Pacific, from East Africa to southern Japan and New Caledonia. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a hard, triangular bony carapace with a high dorsal ridge, in which only the fins, eyes and mouth move freely. Like other boxfishes it can release a toxin (ostracitoxin) into the water when stressed. As a slow bottom fish it searches soft bottoms and reefs for worms, small crustaceans and molluscs. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Triangular boxfish?
The Triangular boxfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Hard triangular bony armour with a dorsal ridge; secretes ostracitoxin
Where does the Triangular boxfish live?
The Triangular boxfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Triangular boxfish get?
The Triangular boxfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Triangular boxfish dangerous to humans?
The Triangular boxfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Do not handle this fish or keep it with others in a small tank; when stressed it can release toxin into the water. Rinse skin and eyes with clean water after contact and seek medical help if symptoms occur.
Is the Triangular boxfish edible?
The Triangular boxfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Triangular boxfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Triangular boxfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tetrosomus
More from the family Ostraciidae
Want the complete picture on the Triangular boxfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Triangular boxfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.