Long Horn Cowfish (Lactoria Cornuta)

The Longhorn Cowfish, known for its distinctive boxy shape and long horns, is a fascinating and quirky addition to marine aquariums. Its vibrant yellow body is adorned with blue or white spots, making it as beautiful as it is unusual. While relatively peaceful, this fish requires careful care due to its sensitivity to water quality and its ability to release toxins when stressed, which can harm tankmates. Best suited for experienced aquarists, the Longhorn Cowfish thrives in a spacious and stable environment.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 20 inches in the wild, but typically 10-15 inches in captivity.
• Tank Size: 125 gallons minimum; requires a large, open tank with plenty of swimming space and some rockwork for shelter.
• Diet: Omnivorous; feeds on a varied diet of marine algae, sponges, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood. Also enjoys vegetable-based foods such as spirulina and nori.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; compatible with other non-aggressive tankmates but should not be housed with fin-nipping species or overly aggressive fish.
• Skill Level: Advanced; requires pristine water quality, ample space, and careful handling.
• Reef Compatibility: With caution; generally safe with corals but may nip at sessile invertebrates, such as sponges or tube worms.

Special Feature - Unique Appearance and Behavior
The Longhorn Cowfish is unmistakable with its boxy shape, vibrant yellow coloration, and long horns extending from its head. Its curious and slow-moving nature makes it a delightful species to observe.

Compatibility
This cowfish is peaceful and works well in community tanks with other non-aggressive species. Avoid housing it with fin-nippers, fast swimmers, or predatory species that may stress or harass it.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Longhorn Cowfish typically features a bright yellow body with blue or white spots. Juveniles are more vibrant, while adults may display slightly muted colors.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Found in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in lagoons and reef flats where it grazes on algae and invertebrates.
• Tank Setup: Requires a large, open tank with stable water conditions, rockwork for hiding, and areas to explore.

Special Considerations

• Toxin Release: When stressed or threatened, the Longhorn Cowfish can release a toxin (ostracitoxin) that is harmful to tankmates and potentially lethal in confined systems. Avoid overcrowding and ensure a low-stress environment to minimize this risk.
• Slow Feeder: This species feeds slowly and may require spot-feeding to ensure it gets enough food, especially in community tanks.
• Growth Potential: Though slow-growing, the Longhorn Cowfish can reach large sizes, so a spacious tank is essential for its long-term health.