Siganus unimaculatus

Datasheet

General Description

The One Spot Foxface, scientifically known as Siganus unimaculatus, belongs to the Siganidae family. These fish are recognized for their role as proficient algae eaters, with a distribution spanning the Western Pacific, including regions like the Ryukyu Islands, the Philippines, and the North West Shelf of Western Australia. They are distinguished by their toxic spines on the dorsal region, a cautionary feature to be mindful of during handling.

Aquarium Suitability

This species is deemed suitable for most aquarium setups, provided that the tank is spacious enough to accommodate their swimming habits. They thrive best in well-established aquariums with ample algae growth on rocks and stones, serving as a vital component of their diet and overall well-being. If algae levels are insufficient, supplementing with algae-rich foods like Spirulina is recommended to maintain their health.

Care and Hardiness

The One Spot Foxface is considered hardy and can adapt well to varying aquatic conditions within the recommended parameters. They exhibit a peaceful temperament but may display aggression towards similar species, necessitating cautious considerations when selecting tank mates. It is vital to note their venomous spines, emphasizing the importance of careful handling to prevent any potential harm.

Reef Suitability

Typically, this species is known to be reef safe when adequately fed. However, in cases of insufficient food availability, they may resort to nibbling on soft coral and LPS. Their affinity for grazing on algae-rich surfaces makes them valuable additions to reef environments, contributing to algae control and maintenance within the ecosystem.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care of the One Spot Foxface, a minimum tank size of 500 liters is recommended to provide ample space for swimming. Maintaining water conditions with a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a temperature between 22.2-25.6°C, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025 is crucial for their well-being. Creating a habitat that mimics their natural environment with adequate algae growth ensures their dietary requirements are met.

Behaviour

These fish exhibit a unique behavior of changing color when frightened, often becoming pale or assuming a brownish hue under stress. When feeling threatened, they tend to seek refuge near rocks and employ camouflage techniques to blend in with their surroundings. Despite their venomous nature, they generally opt to flee when encountering potential threats in their environment.

Feeding and Diet

The primary diet of the One Spot Foxface consists of small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia. While they enjoy a diverse range of frozen foods, maintaining an algae-based diet is crucial for their immune system's health. Feeding them macroalgae such as seaweed or nori, along with microalgae like Spirulina, ensures a balanced nutritional intake essential for their vitality.

Dimorphism

In terms of dimorphism, notable differences between male and female One Spot Foxfaces may not be readily discernible in aquarium settings. However, successful captive reproduction of this species has not been extensively documented, necessitating further research to understand their reproductive behaviors fully.

Habitat and Distribution

Found in the waters of Australia, Indonesia, and various regions across the Western Pacific, the One Spot Foxface inhabits coastal areas with abundant algae growth. Their natural habitat comprises rocky reefs and shallower waters, where they play a significant role in algae consumption and ecosystem balance. Understanding their native environment is key to providing a suitable habitat in a captive setting.