Siganus doliatus

Datasheet

General Description

The Two Barred Rabbitfish, scientifically known as Siganus doliatus, is a species categorized under the Siganidae family. These fish are recognizable for their distinct blue-lined pattern and can grow up to 25.0cm in size. They are endemic to the Western Pacific region, extending from Palau and Kosrae in the north to northwestern Australia and Tonga in the south.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for most aquarium setups, the Two Barred Rabbitfish requires a tank of at least 800 liters due to their active swimming nature. They are known to be effective algae eaters and can be helpful in combating algae growth within the tank. It is important to note that these fish have toxic spines on their backs, and precautions should be taken to avoid accidental injury.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

This species is classified as hardy, making it resilient to fluctuations in water conditions. They are mostly peaceful but may display aggression towards similar species, so careful consideration should be taken when selecting tankmates. Two Barred Rabbitfish are reef-safe if well-fed but can nip at soft corals and LPS if food is scarce.

Reef Suitability

When adequately fed, the Two Barred Rabbitfish can coexist in a reef setup; however, they might exhibit coral-nipping behavior if not provided with a sufficient diet. Their diet primarily consists of macroalgae and microalgae, such as seaweed and spirulina, ensuring their immune system remains healthy.

Aquarium Setup

To cater to their swimming habits, the aquarium should have ample space for the Two Barred Rabbitfish to move freely. A well-established tank with algae-covered rocks and stones is recommended, allowing them to graze naturally. If algae growth is insufficient, supplementing their diet with algae-rich foods like Nori seaweed is vital.

Behaviour

Two Barred Rabbitfish are known to change color when frightened, typically becoming pale or brownish in hue. They may also exhibit pairing behavior, with males and females forming bonded pairs. If threatened, they have a natural instinct to hide next to rocks and camouflage themselves to blend into their environment.

Feeding and Diet

While these fish enjoy a variety of frozen foods, their primary diet should be algae-based to maintain their health. Feeding them plant-based fish flakes and Nori seaweed is essential for their well-being. They can consume large quantities of various algae types, making them valuable assets in algae control within the aquarium.

Habitat and Distribution

In their natural habitat, the Two Barred Rabbitfish can be found in the waters of the Western Pacific, with some specimens extending into the Indo-Malayan area. They prefer rocky areas with abundant algae growth, which serves as their primary food source in the wild. Due to their toxic spines, they have evolved to rely on camouflage and hiding behaviors for protection.