ORA Two-Barred Rabbitfish (Siganus virgatus)

The Two-Barred Rabbitfish, also known as the Barhead Spinefoot, is an herbivorous fish with a wide distribution throughout the Indo-Pacific.  They have pearlescent white on their sides, with bright yellow extending along their dorsal edges and caudal fin. Attractive blue striations line across the top of their bodies, becoming more concentrated toward the head. Their two distinct and namesake black bars come down through the eyes and also extend upwards to the dorsal fin from behind the gills.  The fish can rapidly turn off their normal coloration and replace it with a camouflage like blotching, depending on mood or when sleeping. So don’t be alarmed if your beautiful fish suddenly becomes drab in an instant.

Two-Barred Rabbitfish exhibit similar grazing behavior, size and disposition to their cousins the Tangs. These fish are amazing at consuming nuisance algae in the home aquarium. They will also readily accept diets formulated for herbivorous fish as well as macroalgae like Ulva and sheets of dried Nori.

All Rabbitfishes possess venomous dorsal, anal and pelvic fin spines which they use for defense.  Use care when handling this fish to avoid being pricked by their spines