Thornback cowfish
A species of Boxfishes, Also known as Backspine cowfish, Spiny-backed cow-fish Scientific name : Lactoria fornasini Genus : Boxfishes
Thornback cowfish, A species of Boxfishes
Also known as:
Backspine cowfish, Spiny-backed cow-fish
Botanical name: Lactoria fornasini
Genus: Boxfishes
Content
Description
Description
Like other members of the family Ostraciidae, the thornback cowfish has hexagonal, plate-like scales which are fused together to form a solid, box-like carapace, from which the eyes, mouth, fins and tail protrude. The mouth is small and has protruding lips, the upper profile of the snout is straight, the back is somewhat convex, the flanks are concave and the belly rounded. There are small pre-ocular spines on either side of the head, a large spine projects from the dorsal ridge and a further moderate-sized spine projects from each of the pelvic ridges near the anal fin. Neither the dorsal fin nor the anal fin has any spines but both have nine soft rays, while the caudal fin is fan-shaped and has ten rays. A typical length for this fish is 15 cm (6 in); the colour is variable, and changes to match the fish's surroundings; generally pale tan with spots or wiggly markings in yellow, mauve or blue. In some regions, this fish is toxic.
* Disclaimer: The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.
Photo By Rickard Zerpe , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original