Welcome back to another episode of #fff or Friday Fish Facts!
The smooth trunkfish (Lactophrys triqueter) is a fascinating member of the boxfish family, Ostraciidae. It gets its name from the triangular body shape (when viewed head-on), and its smooth texture, which sets it apart from other trunkfish species. Do we need to tell you not to touch the trunkfish? Read on to learn why that’s not a good idea.
This fish is encased in a bony carapace, providing protection against predators. Its appearance is striking, with a dark background adorned with white hexagonal spots resembling a honeycomb pattern. Juveniles have large yellow spots that gradually fade into the iconic hexagonal markings as they mature. You will ocassionally see a gold colored version of the same fish.
They inhabit depths of up to 160 feet and are often solitary, though they occasionally move in small groups. They mainly stay on the reef flats and sea grass beds. Their habitats are rich in biodiversity, providing ample opportunities for feeding and shelter.
The diet of the smooth trunkfish consists mainly of small invertebrates, including mollusks, worms, crustaceans, sponges, and tunicates. They use their pointed snout and protruding lips to expel jets of water, disturbing the sandy seabed to uncover hidden prey. It’s fascinating to watch but you have to stay back and give them room to get comfortable around a diver.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the smooth trunkfish is its ability to release a toxic substance called ostracitoxin when stressed or threatened. This defense mechanism deters predators like large fish and explains why divers should never touch a trunkfish, no matter how curious they are about the name. Additionally, their rigid body and angular shape contribute to their stability while swimming, making them a marvel of nature’s engineering. With their peculiar appearance and fascinating behaviors, the smooth trunkfish is truly one of our favorites.