Rabbit Fish Foxface
Rabbitfishes grow to about 40 cm (15 in) and have small, rabbit-like mouths, large dark eyes, and a shy temperament which gives them their name; the scientific name Siganus is simply the Latin term by which Mediterranean rabbitfishes were known in Ancient Rome. Most species have either bright colors or a complex and interesting pattern.
Another unusual feature among rabbitfishes is their pelvic fins, which are formed from two spines, with 3 soft rays between them. The dorsal fin bears 13 spines with 10 soft rays behind, while the anal fin has 7 spines and 9 oft rays behind; the fin spines are equipped with well-developed venom glands. All rabbitfish are diurnal, some live in school, while others live more solitary lives among the corals. They are herbivorous, feeding on benthic algae in the wild. They are pelagic spawners. Many are fished for food, and the more colorful species – especially the foxfishes – are often kept in aquaria.
In aquaria, they should be fed a variety of fresh vegetables and algae. Care must be taken during aquarium maintenance and cleaning, as rabbitfishes are often easily frightened and will use their poisonous spines in defence. Their poison is not life-threatening to adult humans, but is likely to cause severe pain.
Siganus uspi is known under several different names, such as Bicolor Foxface Rabbitfish, Fiji Bicolor Foxface Rabbitfish, Fiji Bicolor Rabbitfish, Bicolored Foxface, Bicolor Foxface, Fiji Foxface, Uspi Rabbitfish, Uspi Spinefoot, Lo Uspi, Lo Uspae, and Siganus Uspi.
It is not advisable to house Bicolor Foxface Rabbitfish in aquariums smaller than 70 gallons / 265 liters. This fish needs plenty of space to swim around in as well as several suitable hiding spots. It is fairly hardy and can be kept even in newly established aquariums.
The Bicolor Foxface Rabbitfish can be kept with other peaceful species in a community aquarium. It can also be housed with more aggressive species, because they will usually fear the venomous spines too much to attack the rabbitfish.
The Foxface is recognised by its distinctive shape and colouration. It has an elongated snout and concave head profile. Adults have a diagonal black band from the dorsal fin origin, through the eye to the mouth. The breast is covered by a large black triangle. The posterior portion of the body and fins are bright yellow.
Juveniles form schools and shelter in coral. By the time the fish have reached 10cm in length, they form pairs. These pairs are believed to be maintained for life.
This species occurs widely throughout the western Pacific. In Australia it is recorded around the tropical north from Ashmore Reef, Western Australia to the Capricorn Group, Queensland.
The foxface rabbitfish is an excellent aquarium fish does great in captivity. The 'Melattic" or "Magnificent" Foxface is quite rare. The spines of this and all Rabbitfishes are venomous. Do not touch! This is an attractive and exceptionally hardy aquarium species. It can be quite nervous when first introduced to the tank and may take a long time to adapt in an area with excessive foot traffic. Does best if some algae is present in the tank – if not, feed frequently. These fish are usually indifferent toward its tankmates, except closely related species and members of its own kind. This species is indifferent toward its tankmates, except closely related species and members of its own kind. Juveniles will tolerate each other, but adults should be kept singly. Provide a tank with plenty of hiding places, as well as some open swimming room.