Boxfishes
Yellow boxfish (Ostracion cubicum)
The Yellow boxfish (Ostracion cubicum) belongs to the family Ostraciidae (boxfishes) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a herbivore and usually seen alone. It reaches about 35 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Not Evaluated. Treat it with caution (toxic if eaten): do not touch or handle it.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Ostracion cubicum |
|---|---|
| Family | Boxfishes (Ostraciidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce scatola giallo |
| Common name (EN) | Yellow boxfish |
| Maximum size | 35 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | NE — Not Evaluated |
| Hazard | Toxic if eaten |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Diving hazard — Toxic if eaten: keep your distance, and never touch, corner or feed it.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Diving safety
Toxic if eaten. This fish is toxic if eaten — its skin and organs can carry potent toxins. It is not dangerous to touch briefly, but must never be consumed.
If it happens
- Do not eat it. If someone has ingested it and shows tingling, weakness or breathing trouble, seek emergency care immediately.
After
- Any suspected poisoning needs a hospital: there is no home treatment.
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Yellow boxfish belong to?
- The Yellow boxfish (Ostracion cubicum) belongs to the family Ostraciidae (boxfishes).
- Is the Yellow boxfish dangerous?
- It needs caution: Toxic if eaten. Keep your distance and do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Yellow boxfish endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Yellow boxfish get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 35 cm.