Caring for a Thornback/Hovercraft Boxfish

skeeter_ca

Active member
I was wondering what special needs a Thornback/Hovercraft (Tetrosomus gibbosus) Boxfish may need? Anything special I should be aware of?

skeeter
 
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They probably jump, despite the shape. I found what I think was one of these in Hawaii, and it moved FAST when it saw me. Not as fast as some other fish, but considering it's a box with tiny fins, a fairly impressive speed. Also surprisingly maneuverable, but not great at swimming in a perfectly straight line.
 
If you QT, use Prazipro and avoid copper. They don't have scales and are sensitive to medications. Feed Mysis shrimp, live black worms and chopped up squid, clam and fish. Peaceful and often ignored by other fish (though I wouldn't throw one in a tank with triggers, etc.). Should be fed multiple times per day. Due to their body type it can be difficult to tell if they're losing weight/mass. Not the best swimmers in a home aquarium with a lot of flow, so can be victims of anemones and stinging LPS. They have the potential to get pretty big, but I've never seen one in a home aquarium come close to full grown size.
 
Well, I went ahead and bought one. He's a cute little bugger. I'll see if I can post a pic this weekend. He is a slow eater and the other fish do gobble up the food quickly. I have noticed he is always awake in the morning before any of the other fish. I have been feeding him when the lights are off in the morning and he really gets a lot of food then. I will closely monitor him and make sure he is always eating. he also picks at the live rock all day long. Hopefully the pods in the tanks will help supplement his other feedings.

skeeter
 
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