The Cowfish is in the boxfish family, which is best known for its boxlike carapace. The only parts of their body that moves are the fins, eyes and mouths. When threatened the skin secretes a poisonous toxin. The eat algae, sponges, tunicates and other small invertebrates found on the ocean floor.
The Thornback cowfish is identified by the two horns protruding from it’s forehead and a thornlike spike on its back. It is tan with light blue lines or spots.
photos courtesy Charlie Kline