Saltwater Aquarium Fish Species Profile: Rabbitfish

Rabbitfish, found in shallow lagoons in the Indo-Pacific and eastern Mediterranean, have small, hare-like mouths, large dark eyes, and a peaceful temperament, which gives them their name. They are colorful, and have well developed, venomous dorsal and anal fin spines.

Use caution when handling these fish, as the spines will inflict a painful sting. It is best to use two nets to corral these fish into a container, rather than a single net to transfer these fish. These fish are very hardy and disease resistant and make an excellent addition to a medium- to large-sized saltwater aquarium.

Rabbitfish are one of the few species that will eat problematic Bryopsis algae. Even though these fish are herbivores, use caution if they are to be housed in a reef aquarium, as they may nip at some corals and sessile invertebrates.

Interesting Facts:
Family:	Siganidae.
Origin:	Fiji.
Size:	Up to 9"
Diet:	Herbivore.
Tank Setup:	Saltwater. May be kept in reefs with caution; FOWLR set-ups prefered.
Tank Conditions:	72-78°F; sg 1.020-1.025; pH 8.1-8.4; dKH 8-12
Min. Tank Capacity:	70 gallons.
Temperament:	Peaceful.
Swimming Level:	All areas of the aquarium.
Care Level:	Easy to Moderate.