Latin name

Ostracion solorensis

Other name

Ostracion solorensis

Identification

This species is a relatively rare inhabitant of coral-rich areas of coastal reefs. The striped boxfish has a characteristic bony protrusion above the upper lip.

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 9.

Fish colouring

Males are bluish gray to blackish with thin pale blue and wavy lines on the back, a broad dark band with light wavy lines along the upper flank, and white spots with a black border on the sides. 

Females have thin black lines on the back, the sides are yellowish brown to greenish brown with broad black bars. 

Distribution

Western Pacific: Christmas Island in the eastern Indian Ocean and from Indonesia to Fiji, north to the Philippines. Recently recorded from Tonga and the northern Great Barrier Reef.

Habitat

Marine tropical reef associated species. Depth range from 1 to 20 meters.

Size

The maximum length of the reticulated boxfish is 12 cm.

Behavior

Occupies clear coastal reefs in invertebrate-rich habitats on shallow ridges or in the upper zone of slopes, singly or in pairs. 

Food and feeding habits

Ostracion solorensis feed mainly on invertebrates.

Reproduction

Sexual dimorphism is present. There is little studied information on the reproduction of this species. These fish do not reproduce in captivity.

Fishing

Have no commercial importance. Of no interest to fishermen.

Relationship with a person

Venomous. Sometimes these fish are kept as aquarium fish.