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(siganus corallinus)
Saltwater
This popular rabbitfish is found in the Western Pacific Ocean including the Great Barrier Reef area. Many like this fish because of its good demeanor, exceptional color, and specially adapted mouth, which can graze natural algae. Juveniles are light brown with tiny white dots covering its entirety, and, on occasion, some vertical banding. The adult changes into a golden yellow with tiny vivid blue spots covering the body. The mouth is specially adapted for algae grazing while the dorsal spines are used for protection,; erecting and stinging when threatened. They are venomous. Care needs to be taken when handling this fish. Some call it a Blue Spotted Spinefoot.
Size: `sm. 2"-3"; med. 3"-4 1/2"; lg. 5-6 1/2";can get up to 7" in captivity, 9" in the wild.
No. in Tank: One
Tank: min. 100 gallons
Temperament: Peaceful
Food: (Herbivore) Feed things such as Spirulina, algae, dried algae sheets and herbivore preparations. Need to feed this fish frequently each day.
Light: High
Adaptation: It is usually nervous when first introduced and may take quite awhile to acclimate, especially if there is a lot of activity going on around the tank. A quiet setting plus hiding places, open room to swim and algae will help the process along.
Compatibility: Will not tolerate its own kind but most other fish are fine, especially aggressive fish that will respect the venomous dorsal spines. Generally does well in a reef tank, as long as it is kept well fed. If not, this fish will eat invertebrates, soft corals and LPS, in addition to nipping at hard corals.
**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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