• Name:

    Longhorn Cowfish

  • Family: Ostraciidae
  • Species: Boxfish
  • Scientific Name: Lactoria cornuta
More Details

General info about Longhorn Cowfish

The Longhorn Cowfish, scientific name Lactoria cornuta, is a unique-looking species that has a box-shaped body with bony plates that provide protection against predators. They have two long horns on the forehead that give them their name. They grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) in length, but in an aquarium, they usually reach around 12 inches (30 cm) in length. This species requires a large aquarium with plenty of hiding places, as they can be aggressive and territorial with other fish.

Longhorn Cowfish Diet & Nutrition

In the wild, Longhorn Cowfish feed on a variety of algae, small crustaceans, and worms. In an aquarium, they should be fed a varied diet that includes marine algae, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and other small meaty foods. They may also benefit from the occasional feeding of live food.

Determining Sex of Longhorn Cowfish

There are no visible differences between males and females.

Breeding & Spawning Longhorn Cowfish

Breeding Longhorn Cowfish in an aquarium is challenging and has not been reported often. They are egg layers and the eggs are sticky, attaching to surfaces in the aquarium.

Common Diseases with Longhorn Cowfish

Longhorn Cowfish are generally hardy, but like all fish, they can be susceptible to diseases like bacterial infections, parasites, and fungal infections. Maintaining good water quality and a healthy diet can help prevent these diseases.

Longhorn Cowfish Origin

Longhorn Cowfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and the Hawaiian Islands.

Caution with Longhorn Cowfish

Longhorn Cowfish have a potent toxin in their skin and organs that can be harmful to other fish in the aquarium. They can also release this toxin into the water if stressed, injured, or killed. This toxin can be deadly to other fish and invertebrates in the aquarium.

Acclimating Longhorn Cowfish

When introducing Longhorn Cowfish to a new aquarium, it is important to acclimate them slowly. This can be done by floating the bag containing the fish in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes, then adding a small amount of aquarium water to the bag every 5-10 minutes. This will allow the fish to slowly adjust to the new water chemistry and temperature.

Longhorn Cowfish are Venomous

Longhorn Cowfish are venomous and have poisonous flesh. This species should not be consumed by humans and should be handled with caution. If they are stressed or feel threatened, they can release a toxic substance from their skin that can be harmful to other fish in the aquarium.
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Name Species Family Scientific Name More Detail Added by
Longhorn Cowfish Boxfish Ostraciidae Lactoria cornuta The Longhorn Cowfish, scientific name Lactoria cornuta, is a unique-looking species that has a box-shaped body with bony plates that provide protection against predators. They have two long horns on the forehead that give them their name. They grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) in length, but in an aquarium, they usually reach around 12 inches (30 cm) in length. This species requires a large aquarium with plenty of hiding places, as they can be aggressive and territorial with other fish. PalaciosAn

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