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Trunkfish and longhorn cowfish
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Trunkfish and longhorn cowfish
Smooth trunkfish, Rhinesomus triqueter 39, longhorn cowfish, Lactoria cornuta 40, and thornback trunkfish, Tetrosomus gibbosus 41. Handcolored copperplate engraving from Gottlieb Tobias Wilhelms Encyclopedia of Natural History: Fish, Augsburg, 1804. Wilhelm (1758-1811) was a Bavarian clergyman and naturalist known as the German Buffon
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Media ID 23209366
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Cornuta Cowfish Creature Encyclopedia Gottlieb Ichthyology Lactoria Longhorn Ostracion Smooth Thornback Tobias Wilhelm Gibbosus Triqueter Trunkfish
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This exquisitely hand-colored copperplate engraving is a stunning representation of three distinct species of trunkfish and longhorn cowfish, captured from the depths of the ocean in the early 19th century. The image is taken from the Encyclopedia of Natural History: Fish, published in Augsburg, Germany, by the Bavarian clergyman and naturalist, Gottlieb Tobias Wilhelm (1758-1811). The three trunkfish depicted are the smooth trunkfish (Rhinesomus triqueter), the thornback trunkfish (Tetrosomus gibbosus), and the lesser trunkfish (Ostracion meleagris), which is not shown in this print. Trunkfish are so named due to the prominent, elongated, and knobbed spine that extends from their dorsal fin, resembling the trunk of an elephant. These fish are characterized by their robust bodies and distinctive coloration, which provides excellent camouflage among the coral reefs where they reside. The longhorn cowfish (Lactoria cornuta) is also shown in this enchanting print. This fascinating marine creature is easily recognizable by its distinctive long, pointed horns, which are actually elongated spines from their dorsal and pectoral fins. These horns serve multiple purposes, including defense against predators and the manipulation of their environment to create currents that help them feed. Wilhelm's meticulous attention to detail and masterful use of color in this engraving provide a captivating glimpse into the rich diversity of marine life that existed long before the advent of modern photography. This beautiful print is a testament to Wilhelm's dedication to the natural world and his role as a pioneering ichthyologist, paving the way for future generations to explore and appreciate the wonders of the ocean.
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