Yellow Boxfish

Yellow Boxfish

Ostracion cubicus

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Yellow Boxfish (Ostracion cubicus) is a distinctive marine fish recognized by its cuboid body shape and bright yellow coloration with black spots in juveniles, which fade and develop a honeycomb pattern with age. This species inhabits coral reefs and lagoons across the Indo-Pacific. It is an omnivore, feeding on algae, small invertebrates, and occasionally small fish, and is known for releasing a potent neurotoxin (ostracitoxin) when stressed as a defense mechanism.

Max Length 45 cm
Max Weight 4 kg
Lifespan 5 - 15 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 1 - 75 m
Diet Omnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Solitary

Destinations to spot Yellow Boxfish

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Yellow Boxfish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Yellow Boxfish

Where can you see the Yellow Boxfish?

The Yellow Boxfish can be seen at 24 dive destinations in 8 countries. The best spots include Abu Dabbab (Egypt), Aliwal Shoal (South Africa), Anilao (Philippines), Fuvahmulah (Maldives), and Gili Islands (Indonesia).

What is the best time to see the Yellow Boxfish?

The Yellow Boxfish can be seen all year round at Abu Dabbab, Aliwal Shoal, Anilao, Gili Islands, and Hurghada.

Where can you see the Yellow Boxfish in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Yellow Boxfish at Gili Islands, Komodo, Lembeh Strait, Nusa Penida, and Raja Ampat.

Where can you see the Yellow Boxfish in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, you can see the Yellow Boxfish at Kapalai, Lankayan, Mabul, and Sipadan.

Where can you see the Yellow Boxfish in Thailand?

In Thailand, you can see the Yellow Boxfish at Koh Lipe, Koh Tao, Richelieu Rock, and Similan Islands.

How big does the Yellow Boxfish get?

The Yellow Boxfish can reach up to 45 cm in length and 4 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Yellow Boxfish live in?

The Yellow Boxfish is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Yellow Boxfish live?

The Yellow Boxfish lives between 1 and 75 m deep.

What does the Yellow Boxfish eat?

Eats both plant and animal matter, which lets it adapt its diet to whatever the habitat offers.

When is the Yellow Boxfish most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

Does the Yellow Boxfish live in groups?

No. The Yellow Boxfish is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

How long does the Yellow Boxfish live?

The Yellow Boxfish lives 5 to 15 years.

What is the conservation status of the Yellow Boxfish?

The Yellow Boxfish is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Yellow Boxfish. Spotted something that looks off?

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