The Scrawled Cowfish

   The scrawled cowfish, Acanthostracion quadricornis, inhabits tropical waters in the Caribbean and off the west coast of Africa. This species sports a unique morphology as tough bony plates make a pseudo-carapace that aids against predation.  A. quadricornis has distinctive appendages above its bulbous eyes and vibrant blue horizontal coloration across its snout and body. A single spine adorns both the dorsal and ventral ends of the body. An elongated caudal peduncle makes A. quadricornis appear stout, adding to the myriad of physical quirks that make it easily identifiable. Additionally, this species has a base color that is typically a beige to yellow color, allowing for camouflage amongst sandy sediment. The average adult reaches approximately 20 cm in total length as A. quadricornis becomes sexually mature at least 19 cm in total length. The small pouty mouth of A. quadricornis holds fewer than 30 teeth in total. This species preys on a multitude of invertebrates including cnidarians, crustaceans, and marine foliage. Spawning takes place biyearly, once in the winter months and then again in the late summer. The juveniles produced spend their early lives in pelagic waters. Adults inhabit beds of seagrasses in relatively shallow water. Despite being commonly consumed by humans (following vigilant preparation), this species does not face any threats to its overall population.  

   Throughout our week with the Keys Marine Lab, we had two separate sightings of A. quadricornis. The initial sighting took place at Stag Party East while the following sighting occurred in the tide pools of Bahia Honda State Park. Each habitat could be characterized by shallow waters, exposed sandy substrate, and the presence of seagrasses.  

    The sightings of A. quadricornis were an exciting experience as I had never known about the species prior to this week. Its presence in the Florida Reef Tract is a testament to the immense biodiversity within this ecosystem and the unique creatures that inhabit it. With all the peculiar defining characteristics of A. quadricornis, it's difficult not to appreciate its docile and aloof temperament. 

A. quadricornis found in Stag Party East. Photo courtesy of Dr. Joshua Voss

Best Fishes, 

Sydney Brown 

Works Cited

Bester, Cathleen. “DISCOVER FISHES Acanthostracion Quadricornis.” Florida Museum, University of Florida, www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/discover-fish/species-profiles/acanthostracion-quadricornis. Accessed 27 May 2021.