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(signus uspi, lo uspi)
Saltwater
Native to the South Pacific, it is only found around Fiji. Aquarist seek out this rabbitfish more than any other. It is a rare find. The front part of this fish is a dark brownish-purple with white and black bands on the head. The remaining back one-fourth is yellow, as is the tail. The elongated snout makes grazing for algae an easy endeavour. For protection, this fish has venomous dorsal spines that become erect, ready to sting a predator -- or you! Use care with this fish. Sometimes called a Bicolor Foxface Rabbitfish or a Black Foxface Rabbitfish. Has a "cousin," Foxface Rabbitfish, who lives in the Western Pacific.
Size: sm. 2"-3"; med. 3"-4"; lg. 4"-5"
No. in Tank: one or a mated pair
Tank: min. 50 gallons
Temperament: Peaceful - except toward other rabbitfish.
Food: (Herbivore) Best to feed this fish frequently, especially if in a reef aquarium. Feed Spirulina, algae, fresh vegetables and dried algae sheets.
Light: High
Adaptation: This fish gets shy and nervous when first introduced, possibly making acclimation a long process. It will help to make sure there is algae in the aquarium and place it in an area without a lot of foot traffic. Outside distractions will increase the fish's anxiety, increasing acclimation time. One established in the tank, it will be fine.
Compatibility: Ideal for a reef system as long as it is well fed. If not, it will eat soft corals and LPS, and nip at hard corals. Compatible with most aggressive and large fish (those that respect the dorsal spines), ignores invertebrates and generally leave other fish alone.
**RARE
**VENOMOUS DORSAL SPINES
A sting can cause severe pain. If allergic, severe reactions may occur. If stung, soak the area in soapy water (helps clean out bacteria), and seek medical attention promptly.
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