Acanthostracion quadricornis
Scrawled Cowfish
Maximum Size:
21 in (55 cm)
Longevity:
Unknown
Typical depth:
33–100 ft (10–30 m)
Behavior:
Scrawled cowfish are a colorful member of the boxfish family. They are protected by a set of rigid, hexagon-shaped dermal plates and a pair of horns on their heads that look like cow horns. These slow-moving fish feed on sponges, tunicates and shrimp as well as gorgonians, and sea anemones.
Predators:
Sharks, rays and grouper.
Did you know?
The scientific name of this species quadricornis, means “four horned”. The first pair of horns is easy to spot on the head. The second pair of horns is located in the lower rear corners of their box-like bodies.
