Thornback Cowfish (Lactoria fornasini)
Fish in the family Ostraciidae. Moderate care. Not Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Thornback Cowfish displays a pale yellow to tan body with a distinctive box-like, cuboid shape reinforced by bony plates. It is characterized by horn-like protrusions (spines) above each eye and at the rear corners of the body, giving it a "thorny" appearance.
Diet and feeding
Feed a varied diet of high-quality pellets, mysis shrimp, small crustaceans, and occasional vegetable matter. Offer food 2–3 times daily in small portions, as overeating can cause bloating and related health issues.
Difficulty and care for the Thornback Cowfish
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial septicaemia, Velvet disease
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea to the Great Barrier Reef and beyond, typically found on coral reefs and rocky areas.
Log Thornback Cowfish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Thornback Cowfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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