Siganus vulpinus – Foxface
The species Siganus vulpinus was first described by Hermann Schlegel and Salomon Müller in 1845. This fish belongs to the family Siganidae, which are known as the rabbitfish. The family Siganidae consists of one genus, Siganus, which contains about 30 species. The genus name Siganus is derived from the Latin word for rabbitfish, referring to the shape of the snout. The species name vulpinus means “fox-like”, probably referring to the pointed snout. Its common names are Foxface or Foxface Fish.
Synonyms: Amphacanthus vulpinus, Lo vulpinus, Teuthis vulpina, Teuthis vulpinus, Teuthis tubulosa.
Description
Appearance:
The foxface has an elongated and laterally flattened body. Its base color is bright yellow, and it has a white head and a black band that runs from the mouth through the eye to the dorsal fin. The fins are yellow, and the fish can grow up to 25 centimeters long.
Differences between sexes:
There are no obvious physical differences between males and females. Behavioral differences have not been specifically documented.
Behavior and temperament:
The foxface is generally peaceful but can be territorial. They often live solitary or in pairs, but juveniles can be found in schools. They are not shy and usually swim in midwaters.
Predation Behavior:
The Foxface displays a peculiar behavior when it is being chased by a predator, such as a moray eel. In such a situation, the fish changes color to a dull gray and pretends to be dead. It lies on the bottom and barely moves its gills. This behavior is a form of camouflage and deception, which makes the predator lose interest. Once the threat is over, the Foxface fish quickly swims away.
Life expectancy:
There are no specific data on life expectancy in the wild or aquariums.
Biotope
The Foxface is found in the western Pacific Ocean, including the Philippines, Indonesia, New Guinea, and the Great Barrier Reef. It lives in coral-rich lagoons and offshore reefs, and its natural habitat consists of coral and rocks. The Foxface has no documented natural predators but can defend itself with its venomous spines.
Diet
In the wild:
The Foxface primarily feeds on algae and zooplankton.
In the aquarium:
They should be fed algae-rich foods such as nori and spirulina. It is important not to feed them foods that are not algae-rich, as this can lead to health problems.
Reef Safe:
They are generally reef-safe but may occasionally nibble on corals if food is insufficient.
The Aquarium
Aquarium Size:
A minimum tank size of 300 liters is recommended for one fish, and a larger aquarium is advisable for multiple pairs. The aquarium should be equipped with live rock and algae, and sand is an appropriate substrate.
Water parameters:
Ideal water parameters are a temperature of 24-30°C, pH of 8.0-8.5, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.026.
Introduction:
The aquarium should be properly matured to allow algae to grow before introducing the fish.
Compatibility:
They can live well with peaceful fish such as clownfish, surgeonfish, and other rabbitfish.
Breeding in the Aquarium
There are no documented cases of successful breeding in an aquarium environment. There is no specific information on using a special breeding tank or conditioning.
Particularities
The Foxface is known for its ability to change color when stressed or at night. It is also effective in controlling algae infestations in aquariums.
Conclusion
The Foxface is a relatively easy fish for experienced aquarists to keep. They are peaceful and get along well with other peaceful species. Their ability to eat algae makes them helpful in maintaining a clean tank. It is important to ensure that they are given plenty of algae-rich foods to ensure their health. Although they are generally reef-safe, they must be fed well to prevent them from nibbling on corals.
Video
Author
John de Lange
Copyright images
John de Lange
