Siganus Doliatus (Pencil - Streaked Rabbirfish

[reefaquarist]

I am interested in purchesing this fish, he just came in the fish shipment at my LFS. I have found some information on him, but not enough to know if I want to put him in my 55 gal reef tank that is over 2 years old. Any information would be helpful.

 

[reefaquarist]

It's a Rabbitfish. I do know how to spell.

 

[Len]

Rabbitfish (Siganids) are very much like Tangs (Acanthurids). S.doliatus is a beautiful reef fish that comes from a wide natural range. As with all Siganids, they are primarily consumers of algae, both micro and macro. S.doliatus will also take any foods offered and is an aggressive feeder.

S.doliatus is one of the smaller Rabbitfish, attaining a mature length of about 8-9 inches (usually 6-7" in captivity). They are relatively slow growers, so purchasing a 2-3" specimen should provide you with a couple of years of enjoyment before it gets too large for a 55g. I would only attempt on specimen for your tank, although multiples specimens per species can be kept provided a large enough tank (6'+).

Please note: Their spiny dorsal fins are venomous. Although the venom is not likely toxic unless your allergic, it supposedly packs quite a punch. When handling these fish, I don't recommend using nets, but rather collection cups. It's also a good idea to wear gloves.

Any other questions, just ask.

 

[reefaquarist]

Leonard, thank you so much for the information, I think I will get one. Do you know if he will eat bryopsis Blumosa? I went to your site. What a beautiful tank, the site is full of information. Thank you again.

 

[Len]

John,

Thanks for the kind words. Planning on writing a few articles so that my site has more usuable content (personally, I don't think there's much practical information on my site).

I don't know of a single species of fish that will positively consume Bryposis. Ocassionaly, certain species of Zebrasoma tangs will munch on this highly fibrous algae, but herbivorous fish, in general, usually stay away from the stuff.