Acanthostracion polygonius Poey, 1876

Species Identification

The honeycomb cowfish, Acanthostracion polygonius, has armor-like hexagonal scales covering most of its body.

Etymology and Camouflage

It gets its name from its distinctive honeycomb-like body pattern and prominent "horns"; this pattern helps the fish blend into surrounding coral reefs.

Adult Coloration

Most individuals are blue, but they may also appear yellow, gray, or green.

Juvenile Coloration

Juveniles are typically more colorful than adult fish.

Fin Structure

This species lacks pelvic fins, and has a rounded caudal fin.

Horn Structure and Function

Several of the honeycomb cowfish's modified bony scales form its "horns", which act as a protective feature.

Distinguishing Morphological Features

It can be told apart from similar fish by the two spines above its eyes and its characteristic hexagonal body pattern.

Mouth Morphology

Compared to other boxfish, the honeycomb cowfish has a smaller protruding mouth and fleshy lips.

Size Measurements

Its maximum recorded body length is 50 centimeters, while the average length is 25 centimeters.

Broad Geographic Range

This species is distributed across the western Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and waters adjacent to Brazil.

Gulf of Mexico Distribution

It is absent from most of the Gulf of Mexico, but has established populations around Florida.

Habitat Preferences

The honeycomb cowfish inhabits warm, clear waters near coral reefs, seagrass beds, and in estuaries.

Population Characteristics

It is an uncommon and cautious species.

Food Fish Value

Honeycomb cowfish are valued as food fish, sold fresh and highly prized in the Caribbean where the species is abundant.

Consumption Risks

There have been multiple reported cases of ciguatera poisoning linked to consuming this fish.

Aquarium Trade Use

It is also commercially sold for use as an aquarium fish.