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Size
Up to 9.8 inches (25 cm) -
Diet
Algae -
Range
Western Pacific Ocean -
Habitat
Coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs
Physical Characteristics
- Distinctive shape and coloration. It has an elongated snout and concave head profile.
- Adults have a diagonal black band from the base of the dorsal (top) fin through the eye to the mouth. The breast is covered by a large black triangle. The posterior portion of the body and fins are bright yellow.
- Can grow to 9.8 inches (25 cm) in length.
- The anal fin has seven spines, more than most other bony fishes.
Animal Fact
Foxface rabbitfish are venomous and capable of delivering a painful sting.
Diet / Feeding
- Diet consists of algae growing on the bases of branching coral.
Range / Habitat
- Occurs widely throughout the Western Pacific from the western Philippines, Indonesia, New Guinea, Great Barrier Reef, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Caroline Islands, Marshall Islands, Nauru to Kiribati.
- Found in coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs to depths of about 30 feet (9 m).
Reproduction & Growth
- By the time an individual reaches 4 inches (10 cm) in length, it will pair up with another individual. These pairs are believed to mate for life.
- Adults are typically seen in pairs while juveniles tend to form schools and seek shelter in coral.
Conservation Status
- “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List.
Additional Information
- Venomous and capable of giving a painful sting.
- Can be territorial.
Sources
- www.fishbase.org
- Surgeonfishes Rabbitfishes. Debelius, Helmut and Kuiter, Rudie H., pg. 176
