Eastern Smooth Boxfish Plush Toy – Chubby, Vibrant and Adorably Lifelike

The Eastern Smooth Boxfish (Anoplocapros inermis), also nicknamed the chubby basketfish or golden boxfish, is a quirky marine creature endemic to southeastern Australia. Found in the waters of Southern Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria, this boxfish thrives on coastal and offshore reefs at depths of up to 300 meters.

With its adorable, plump body and vibrant yellow-brown coloration adorned with dark spots, it’s hard not to find this fish charming. Interestingly, while its flesh isn’t toxic, it can secrete a poisonous mucus that can harm surrounding fish and even itself under prolonged exposure!

This fascinating fish, first described in 1935, gets its scientific name from the Greek words meaning "unarmed" and "wild boar," likely referencing its lack of spines and its resemblance to a pig from behind. It’s a true testament to the diversity and peculiarity of marine life!