Spotted Boxfish (Female)

The spotted boxfish, known for its distinctive markings, goes by various common names depending on its species and location. For example, this one in the pictures is called the Pacific Spotted Boxfish, and its female, as the males of box fish, have more colors.

The female spotted boxfish found in Bahia Solano is a rare and enchanting sight for divers. Its vibrant colors and unique markings often confuse divers, who mistake it for a pufferfish due to their similar appearances. However, the spotted boxfish distinguishes itself with its distinct shape, resembling a box-like structure.

Its subtle elegance and elusive nature add an element of mystery to the underwater world of Bahia Solano, making encounters with this remarkable creature all the more special.

• 📇 Common Names: Pacific Boxfish, Spotted Boxfish, White Spotted Boxfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Ostracion meleagris
• 🐟 Family: Boxfishes – Ostraciidae
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🧜‍♂️ Habitat: Found in both tropical and subtropical oceans, mainly in Indo-Pacific and Eastern Pacific regions. However, their range spans globally, and they remain common in the Atlantic Ocean and the West coast of Africa.

They lurk in shaded, protective recesses in rocky reefs at depths between 10-90 ft. (3-30 m.)

🥙 Diet: Algae, worms, small invertebrates.

⛽️ Fun Fact: As juveniles, these fish always display the female colors, however, as they age their colors will change to have blue spotted sides if male or stay black with white spots if female (as pictured).

It is also worth noting that, as well as their rigid, hexagonal protective exoskeleton, when threatened they have the ability to release a toxic substance from their skin deterring predators.