I bought my first one through marinecenter online and they had absolutely no info on this fish except that it's rare and expensive. I really wish they'd put up more info on these fishes since the average hobbyist would have no way of knowing these need cold water tanks. I'm pretty sure it's just a marketing strategy since most people would not buy it knowing they have to setup an extra tank.
Are they really "rare" in the wild? It seems like they are just rare in the trade because they happen to come from a place where the fish are already more expensive, and they come from sub-40m depths which takes more work for collection. The other species of Australian boxfish are reallllyyy cool too.
They are not that rare in the wild....just rarely imported to the US. They are collected off the coast of Perth, Australia. I've corresponded with one of the divers who collect these animals (apparently, there are only two collectors). He told me that most of his collections go to the Asian markets where he can get a bit more than from the US market. He was kind enough to send me some maps showing their range and water temps in the wild. The distribution point for Australian fish is Cairnes, Australia....which is located 3000 miles away from Perth and is a warm water port. This is the city of export and, as such, tends to make US distributors think they come from warm waters.....which they don't.
These fish are temperate......they are collected anywhere from 40 -100 ft with a water temp that never exceeds 65F. I've not heard of anyone keeping one past a few months in a warm water reef. Mine is kept at 58 and I've had him for two years now. They are actually easy to keep and will accept anything for food....including my fingers. They will even eat in a warm water tank....but, they just don't do well long term there. If you see one available here....let me know.....I might be interested in another one. Here's a pic of mine....
[/IMG]
Here's a pic of my Shaw's box.....also temperate...
thank you guys for alll the info and i really appreciate it and i have a question for you steve do you have those fish in the cold wtaer system what else do you have in your tank cause i am going to make a cold water tank in my store and want to know what else i can put in it?lmk
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7189764#post7189764 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 29reef Is the Shaw's boxfish found in the same area? Those are some amazing fish and photos! Got any of their home...the tank?
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7191160#post7191160 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pecaco34 There are a couple western blue devils at the wholesalers right now, but they will probably cost about what that guy did.
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
