Two Barred Rabbitfish

The Two Barred Rabbitfish (Siganus virgatus) has dark bars near the head, blue markings and a yellow upper body and tail. It is a large, active grazer whose adult swimming needs should be considered before choosing a small individual.

Provide generous open water and shelter among established rocks. Its venomous dorsal spines require care during transfers and maintenance. Other rabbitfish can provoke territorial behaviour, and two individuals should not be assumed to be a compatible pair.

Marine algae and appropriate herbivore preparations should be offered consistently. This rabbitfish can nip soft or stony coral polyps, particularly when feeding needs are unmet. Assess it against the actual reef inhabitants instead of treating its appetite for algae as a guarantee of harmlessness around corals.