đĻ Foxface Rabbitfish (Siganus vulpinus)
The Foxface Rabbitfish is an excellent algae-eating fish with a distinctive fox-like face and beautiful yellow coloration. Hardy, peaceful (mostly), and voracious algae eaters, Foxfaces are popular alternatives to tangs in medium-sized reef tanks. Their venomous dorsal spines demand respect but rarely cause problems.
đ Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Siganus vulpinus |
|---|---|
| Adult Size | 8-9 inches (20-23 cm) |
| Minimum Tank | 75 gallons (285 liters) |
| Temperament | Peaceful (venomous spines) |
| Reef Safe | With Caution (may nip soft corals if underfed) |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Lifespan | 8-10 years |
| Origin | Western Pacific |
â ī¸ Venomous Spines Warning
Foxfaces have venomous dorsal, anal, and pelvic spines:
- Sting is painful but not life-threatening to healthy adults
- Similar to a bee sting for most people
- Use caution during tank maintenance
- They rarely sting intentionally - accidents happen when spooked
- Hot water (not scalding) helps with pain relief
đ Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum; 100+ ideal
- Swimming space: Need room to roam
- Rockwork: For grazing and hiding
Water Parameters
| Temperature | 74-82°F (23-28°C) |
|---|---|
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
| Salinity | 1.023-1.025 |
| Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm |
| Nitrate | <20 ppm |
đŊī¸ Diet & Feeding
Primarily herbivores - excellent algae control.
Primary Diet (70%)
- Nori/Seaweed - Offer daily
- Spirulina foods
- Marine algae sheets
- Fresh macroalgae
Supplementary (30%)
- Mysis shrimp
- Quality pellets
Important: Keep well-fed to prevent coral nipping!
đ Compatibility
Good Tankmates
- Tangs (usually peaceful together)
- Clownfish
- Angels
- Wrasses
- Most community fish
Notes
- Generally peaceful despite size
- May be picked on initially but spines deter bullies
- Can be kept with tangs in appropriately sized tanks
đ¨ Color Changes
- Normal: Bright yellow with black/white face markings
- Stressed/Sleeping: Mottled brown camouflage pattern
- Color change is normal - not a sign of illness
đĄ Tips for Success
- Excellent alternative to tangs for algae control
- Keep well-fed to prevent coral nipping
- Don't panic at color changes - normal behavior
- Use caution during tank maintenance (spines)
- Hardy and disease-resistant
đ Summary
The Foxface Rabbitfish is an excellent choice for reef keepers wanting serious algae control. Hardy, peaceful, and effective grazers, they're often easier to keep than tangs of similar size. The venomous spines require respect but rarely cause problems with normal handling precautions. Keep them well-fed and they'll be model reef citizens.