Aqua Marine Life

The Longhorn Cowfish (Lactoria cornuta), also called the Horned Boxfish, is easily recognised by the two long horns on its head and it’s bright yellow body.

Longhorn Cowfish   © Aqua Marine Life

The eyes of the Longhorn Cowfish move independently from each other, so these animals are able to look in two different directions at the same time.

This slow-moving and generally peaceful species has poisonous skin and if threatened or stressed they can release a toxin into the water that may be lethal to other boxfish and various other organisms.

Boxfish Skeleton   © UC San Diego

Interestingly, the cowfish does not have an internal skeleton like other bony fish, but rather a rigid, hard carapace of fused scales from which the horns, fins, eyes, and lips protrude. This hard, shell-like body looks more like the exoskeleton of crustaceans and similarly functions as protection against predators.

During its lifespan, the beautifully coloured parrotfish is known to change its shape, colour and even gender.

Parrotfish sleeping   © Nikki van Veelen

Parrotfish are abundant in and around the tropical reefs of all the world’s oceans. There are about 80 identified species, ranging in size from less than 30 to 120 cm (1 to 4 ft) in length. All species vary in their colour and shape and each fish repeatedly changes throughout their lives, making it difficult for researchers to identify and classify the individuals.
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