Foxface Rabbitfish (Siganus vulpinus)

Foxface Rabbitfish (Siganus vulpinus)

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Common Names: Foxface, Foxface Lo, Foxface Rabbitfish
Scientific Name: Siganus vulpinus
Family: Siganidae
Origin: Western Pacific — commonly found in coral-rich lagoons and reef slopes (Philippines, Indonesia, Great Barrier Reef).

 

Overview

The Foxface Rabbitfish is a striking and hardy herbivorous fish known for its vibrant yellow body and bold black-and-white facial markings that resemble the features of a fox — hence its name. It’s an excellent algae grazer that adds both beauty and utility to reef and fish-only aquariums.

Foxfaces are peaceful toward most tankmates but can display territorial behavior toward other rabbitfish species. Their dorsal spines contain venom used defensively, so care should be taken during handling or maintenance.

 

Appearance

Adult Foxfaces display a brilliant yellow body with a contrasting jet-black mask running diagonally across the eyes and a white snout. Their coloration can fade to a mottled grey-brown when stressed or at night — a normal camouflage behavior.

 

Temperament

Generally peaceful and shy, especially when first introduced. They often become bolder over time and may interact with keepers. They can flare venomous spines when threatened but are otherwise non-aggressive and suitable for many community tanks.

 

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons (380 L)

• Aquascape: Plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding; open swimming areas.

• Tank Type: Reef-safe with caution (may nip at soft/fleshy corals if underfed).

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)

  • Salinity: 1.023–1.025

  • pH: 8.1–8.4

  • Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

 

Lighting & Flow

• Lighting: Moderate to bright reef lighting.

• Flow: Moderate flow — good circulation without strong, stressful currents.

 

Diet & Feeding

Primarily herbivorous. Feed a varied, plant-forward diet:

• Nori / dried seaweed (clipped to a rock or clip)

• Spirulina-based pellets or flakes

• Frozen herbivore blends and occasional mysis shrimp as treats

• Fresh blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini) occasionally

Feed 2–3 small meals daily to keep them satiated and less likely to pick at corals.

 

Compatibility

• Good with: Tangs, wrasses, gobies, clownfish, chromis, many peaceful community fish.

• Use caution with: Other rabbitfish (territorial), very aggressive species (triggers).

• Reef-safe: With caution — generally reef-friendly when well-fed, but individual behavior varies.

 

Special Considerations

• Venomous Spines: Dorsal spines are venomous — handle with care (nets/containers), avoid bare-hand handling.

• Color Change: Normal fading at night or with stress.

• Algae Control: Excellent natural grazer for hair and film algae when fed properly.

 

Lifespan

Typically 5–7 years in captivity with proper care; can live longer in ideal systems.

 

Breeding

Rare in home aquaria. In the wild they form pairs or small schools and release eggs into open water; eggs are fertilized externally.

 

Care Level

Moderate — hardy and adaptable but needs a stable environment, space, and a plant-rich diet.

 

Fun Fact

Foxface Rabbitfish can change their body color to a mottled, camouflaged pattern when stressed or sleeping — this rapid color-shifting helps them blend into the reef and avoid predators. Also, despite looking like a peaceful reef fish, their sharp dorsal spines contain a mild venom that can be surprisingly painful if you get pricked — nature’s perfect combination of beauty and defense!