Key West Smooth Trunkfish

For many divers, Key West Snorkeling is a memorable experience when a smooth trunkfish (Rhinesomus triqueter) is spotted on a scuba trip. In the Caribbean Sea, Trunkfish is usually found swimming over sandy sea beds near tropical reef regions. The fish is a solitary swimmer, but, if you're lucky, you'll see the smooth trunkfish swimming in groups on your Key West snorkel trip.

The Smooth Trunkfish has an angular silhouette augmented by plate-like scales. A Bony carapace andndash; like an exoskeleton on an insect -- encloses the fish's body and gives it a sort of triangular look from afar. The smooth trunkfish has a pointed snout and distended lips that protrude. The fish can grow up to 19 inches in length, but in the Caribbean, the usually reaches maturity at 8 inches. The coloration of the smooth trunk fish is brownish with small white circular spots. The fish's fins are yellow-colored with fin tips that fade to brown. Juvenile smooth trunkfish have dark bodies complimented by large, highly-visible yellow spots. The trunkfish feeds on water worms andndash; such as acorn worms, polychaete worms, and peanut worms andndash; as well as sponges, mollusks, and small crustaceans.

In some parts of the Caribbean, the smooth trunkfish is a part of the local diet. If you choose to eat the fish, though, dietary experts caution that you ensure the fish has been properly cleaned and prepared. This is because the fish produces a toxic substance, called ostracitoxin, through mucus secretions in its skin. The Smooth Trunkfish releases the toxin when it feels endangered or is being chased by a predator as a defense mechanism. In America, especially in Key West, the fish is a prized addition to saltwater aquariums because of its distinctive carapace, bulging eyes, and unique coloration. Aquarium owners need to take measures to ensure that the fish does not get spooked, otherwise it might release its mucous toxin and potentially kill the rest of the species in your aquarium.