Also Known As: Double Barred Spinefoot, Barhead Spinefoot Compatibility and BehaviorThe Two Barred Rabbitfish (Siganus virgatus) is an ovoid, laterally compressed grazer with pearlescent silvery-white flanks that warm into bright yellow along the upper back and tail. It takes its name from two bold dark oblique bars, one running from the chin up through the eye and a second sweeping from behind the pectoral base toward the front of the dorsal, and fine blue striations lace the head and upper body, growing denser toward the protruding, rabbit-like lips that give the family its name.Note on stress coloration: this fish can switch off that bright patterning in an instant, replacing it with drab grayish camouflage blotching when sleeping or startled, so a suddenly dull-looking specimen is almost always just resting rather than sick, and the color returns as it settles. These are peaceful, active grazers that cruise the rockwork nibbling algae, and they're notably more outgoing than the closely related foxfaces. It's reef safe with caution: a well-fed specimen typically leaves corals alone, but an underfed one may nip soft corals, LPS polyps, and macroalgae, so keeping the greens coming is the best insurance, and many reefers actively seek them out for their appetite for hair algae and bubble algae. Compatibility is unusually easy, since their venomous spines earn respect even from aggressive fish, so they mix well with tangs, angels, wrasses, and clownfish, though very aggressive tankmates are still best avoided given the rabbitfish's passive nature. Handling deserves real caution, since the dorsal, anal, and pelvic spines are venomous and can deliver a sting comparable to a lionfish, so know where the fish is before reaching in and herd it into a rigid container rather than scooping with a net. Aquarium RequirementsThe small to medium specimens in the trade can be grown out in a 75 gallon tank, but this species matures into a substantial fish that will need 125 gallons or more with at least 18 inches of front-to-back width, so plan for the upgrade before buying. Balance generous open swimming lanes with abundant mature live rock, since that rock is both grazing pasture and nighttime shelter, and caves to wedge into overnight make a real difference in how relaxed the fish behaves. A sand substrate suits it, moderate to strong flow with good surface agitation reflects its natural habitat, and strong lighting is welcome since it encourages the algae film it grazes. Supplement that grazing with dried nori or Ulva on a clip at least three times a week, along with spirulina-based flakes, algae wafers, and prepared herbivore foods, offering only occasional meaty items since too much protein isn't good for them. A secure lid is recommended, and because the spines tangle badly in mesh, keep a plastic specimen container on hand for any moves. SpecificationsApproximate Size: 2–3.5"Diet: Herbivore; dried nori and Ulva on a clip, spirulina flakes, algae wafers, and prepared herbivore preparations, supplemented by natural algae grazing on live rock, with occasional mysis or meaty foods, fed 1–2 times dailyOrigin: Eastern Indian Ocean and Western PacificCare Level: Easy to moderateReef Safe: With cautionTemperament: PeacefulSpecial Considerations: Venomous dorsal, anal, and pelvic spines deliver a lionfish-like sting, so handle with care and move it in a rigid container rather than a net. Reef safe with caution, as an underfed fish may nip corals, so keep it well grazed on greens.
