Care Recommendations for the Foxface Lo (Siganus vulpinus) 

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Color Form: Black, Orange, Tan, Yellow
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Compatible: With Caution
• Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
• Max. Size: 9″
• Venomous: Yes
• Origin: Indonesia
• Family: Siganidae
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons

Overview

One of the most common and durable fish found in aquariums is the Foxface Lo, also known as Foxface Rabbitfish. They make an excellent addition to any tank.

Instantly recognizable, the Foxface is mostly bright yellow with a dark colored head and chest area.  They typically grow to be about 4-6 inches and are found in areas near the Great Barrier Reef, New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

In a reef tank, they mainly have a peaceful temperament except when placed with its own species.

The Foxface will also clear your tank of any unwanted algae such as Caulerpa.  It is always a good idea to keep one of these guys around purely for functional use.

Physical Characteristics of the Foxface Lo

When stressed, this yellow can quickly become dark, nearly black, or splotchy gray like camouflage. Always be mindful of this as it can be an indication that water conditions are not optimal for the fish as well. This change in color can also occur when first introduced to a new tank. Do not worry in this case, as the fish is simply acclimatizing and will soon return to its brilliant yellow once it is comfortable.

Its elongated snout gives it a somewhat fox-like look and makes it easier for the fish to feed on algae growth in tiny crevasses in the rocks.  The venomous dorsal and anal spines can be rather imposing when fully erect on the Foxface.  For this reason, it will usually do well with other larger or more aggressive fish who will think better of testing these sharp blades.

Tank Conditions for the Foxface Lo

At least a 125-gallon tank is recommended, but larger is always better.  You want to ensure there is enough unobstructed swimming room and the tank does not become overcrowded.

Foxfaces make good neighbors with a wide variety of fish including angelfish, tangs, wrasses, blennies, clownfish, damsels, eels, gobies, groupers, and hawkfish.  The Foxface will show aggression toward conspecific fish, only keep one per tank.

This fish is considered to be reef compatible although it is wise to monitor its movement carefully.  Like other grazers, it may nibble at bits of fleshy polyps.  However, if the fish is fed regularly it should not bother them

Diet Requirements for Foxface Lo

The Foxface will do just fine with a herbivore diet.  Live rock, dried seaweed in pellet or flake form, algae, spirulina will keep the fish well fed and its health in order.  This can be supplemented at times with more meaty foods such as krill, shrimp, squid, and clams. 

Of course, this grazing fish will always continue to seek out and consume any problem algae such as valonia and red turf.