More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 5000 litres / 1320.86 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 53.0cm / 20.87inches |
| Reef Compatible | Unknown |
| Temperament | Unknown |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Streaked spinefoot (Siganus javus) belongs to the Siganidae family, known for their role as effective algae eaters in aquariums. These fish can reach a maximum size of 53.0cm and are native to the East Indian Ocean, Australia, The Red Sea, and Indonesia. They possess toxic spines on their backs as a defense mechanism.
Aquarium Suitability
The Streaked spinefoot is not considered suitable for a home aquarium due to its large size and specific dietary requirements. They are known for needing a significant amount of space for swimming and are not recommended for smaller tanks.
Demands
The hardiness of the Streaked spinefoot is currently unknown, but they are noted for their need for a diet primarily based on algae to maintain a healthy immune system. They can also display color changes when frightened and require space to swim freely.
Care and Hardiness
With limited information available, it is important to note that these fish require a tank of at least 5000 liters due to their large size. They should be fed a diet that includes macroalgae like seaweed or nori, as well as microalgae such as spirulina.
Reef Suitability
The reef compatibility of the Streaked spinefoot is unknown, given the scarcity of data available regarding their behavior within a reef environment.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for Streaked spinefoot, it is crucial to provide ample space for swimming, along with appropriate algae-based foods to ensure their health. Tank parameters should include a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12.
Behaviour
These fish have a tendency to hide when feeling threatened, often next to rocks where they can blend in with their surroundings. They can alter their coloration and pattern when agitated, exhibiting pale or brownish hues.
Feeding and Diet
The Streaked spinefoot primarily feeds on small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia. However, it is crucial to supplement their diet with algae-based foods like plant-based fish flakes or Nori seaweed to maintain their immune system and overall health.
Habitat and Distribution
The Streaked spinefoot is found in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Persian Gulf to New Caledonia. Their distribution includes areas such as the Gulf of Oman, Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Australia, among others. These fish are known for their algae-eating abilities and their toxic spines as a defense mechanism.