Ostracion cyanurus

Datasheet

General Description
The Bluetail trunkfish (Ostracion cyanurus) belonging to the Ostraciidae family is characterized by its unique square shape and particular swimming style. They typically feed on a mix of algae, coral polyps, zooplankton, and sometimes crustaceans, with a personality that many aquarists find endearing.
Aquarium Suitability
With an average hardiness rating, the Bluetail trunkfish is considered suitable for aquariums but requires careful attention due to its specific demands.
Demands
This species thrives on a diet consisting of a combination of vegetables, shrimp, and small fish pieces, showing a preference for large polyp stone coral, soft coral, and other invertebrates.
Care and Hardiness
The Bluetail trunkfish is known to have a fun and interesting personality but lacks maneuverability in strong currents, necessitating careful consideration of water circulation in their tank setup.
Reef Suitability
Not classified as reef-safe, the Bluetail trunkfish poses a threat to invertebrates in a reef environment due to its feeding habits.
Aquarium Setup
To accommodate the Bluetail trunkfish, a minimum tank size of 600 liters is recommended, with water conditions maintained at pH levels of 8.1-8.4, a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, and specific gravity between 1.020-1.025.
Behaviour
The temperament of the Bluetail trunkfish is not explicitly stated, but the species is known to release toxins when stressed or dying, posing a danger to other aquatic life in the tank.
Feeding and Diet
Feeding on fish, larger crustaceans, macroalgae such as seaweed or nori, and small crustaceans like krill and artemia, the Bluetail trunkfish has specific dietary requirements that need to be met for its overall well-being.
Habitat and Distribution
The Bluetail trunkfish is primarily found in the Western Indian Ocean, ranging from the Red Sea to the Persian Gulf.