Aquaristic Online
Boxfish Yellow
Yellow Boxfish (Ostracion cubicus)
Iconic Bright Yellow Boxfish with Playful Personality
The Yellow Boxfish (Ostracion cubicus) is one of the most recognisable marine species, famed for its bright yellow body and distinctive box-shaped appearance. As juveniles, their vibrant colouration and spotted patterns make them a standout addition to any marine display tank.
This species is peaceful and slow-swimming, making it well-suited to calm community systems with non-aggressive tank mates. Yellow Boxfish require mature aquariums with excellent water quality, stable parameters, and plenty of rockwork for grazing and shelter. Their diet should include a mix of marine pellets, mysis shrimp, enriched brine, and finely chopped seafood.
While hardy once established, the Yellow Boxfish can release toxins when severely stressed. Keeping them with gentle companions and providing a stable environment helps minimise risk. In the right tank, they are charming, long-lived, and full of personality.
Key Features
- Vibrant yellow body with spotted juvenile patterning
- Unique box-shaped appearance for stunning display tanks
- Peaceful temperament; ideal for calm marine communities
- Thrives in stable, mature tanks with excellent filtration
- Omnivorous diet of marine pellets and frozen foods
- Highly popular choice for feature fish in aquariums
Care Requirements
| Scientific Name | Ostracion cubicus |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Diet | Marine pellets, frozen foods, chopped seafood |
| Reef Safe | With caution (may nip corals when underfed) |
| Minimum Tank Size | 350L+ |
| Max Size | Up to 45 cm (juveniles much smaller) |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific |