Black Spot Foxface Rabbitfish

Black Spot Foxface Rabbitfish: The Peaceful Algae Grazer

The Black Spot Foxface Rabbitfish (Siganus unimaculatus), also commonly known as the One Spot Foxface or Blotched Foxface, is a visually stunning and highly desirable marine fish. It features a bright yellow body with a distinctive black-and-white mottled pattern on its head and chest, and a prominent black eyespot near the rear of its body. This fish is prized not only for its color but also for its exceptional ability to graze on undesirable algae, including nuisance hair algae and even bubble algae.

Native to the Western Pacific, this species is relatively hardy and generally peaceful. It can reach a maximum size of up to 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) in an aquarium. Due to its active swimming nature and constant grazing needs, a minimum tank size of 70-90 gallons is recommended to provide ample space and stable water conditions. The Black Spot Foxface is an excellent addition to large community and reef aquariums, often helping to keep the environment clean and balanced.

Warning: The dorsal, pelvic, and anal spines of the Foxface are venomous. While they are not used for hunting, they are an effective defense mechanism. Use extreme caution during all tank maintenance and never handle the fish directly. If stung, immerse the area in hot water (not scalding) and seek immediate medical attention.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This fish is a primary Herbivore and a voracious algae eater. Its diet must be largely comprised of marine plant matter to ensure long-term health and prevent nipping behavior. It should be provided with an unlimited supply of marine algae, such as dried seaweed sheets (Nori) secured by a clip, and supplemented with high-quality vegetable-based pellets or flakes.
• Feeding: The Foxface should be allowed to graze on natural algae on the rockwork throughout the day and be offered supplemental feedings of Nori 3-4 times a week. A well-fed Foxface is less likely to nip at corals.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe With Caution. While this species is beneficial for algae control, a hungry or underfed specimen may occasionally nip at the polyps of some large polyp stony (LPS) and soft corals (like Zoanthids or Xenia). This risk is greatly minimized by providing a continuous, diverse herbivorous diet.
• Temperament: Peaceful. The Black Spot Foxface is a timid fish that may hide or display a mottled, stressed camouflage pattern when first introduced. It is compatible with most other peaceful species. It should only be kept singly, or occasionally in a bonded pair, as it will be aggressive toward other Rabbitfish or Foxface species. Its venomous spines allow it to be housed safely even with some more aggressive fish.
• Handling Caution: The venomous spines deliver a painful sting that requires immediate treatment. The venom is protein-based and can be denatured by heat. If stung, soak the wound in the hottest water tolerable for 30-90 minutes and seek medical help promptly.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Siganus unimaculatus
• Primary Common Name: Black Spot Foxface Rabbitfish
• Other Common Names: One Spot Foxface, Blotched Foxface, One Spot Rabbitfish
• Origin: Western Pacific, Eastern Asia
• Max Size: 8-10 inches (20-25 cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful (Venomous Spines)
• Diet: Herbivore (Algae Grazer)
• Minimum Tank Size: 70-90 Gallons
• Reef Compatibility: With Caution (May nip corals if underfed)