Fin's Fish Guide
The African whitespotted rabbitfish (Siganus sutor) is a brackish-water fish of the family Siganidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The shoemaker spinefoot is a rabbitfish from the western Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a deep, grey-green body speckled with fine white and blue spots when at rest. In the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins it bears strong, venom-linked spines that deliver an intense, painful sting. As a reef-dweller it grazes algae and seagrass in schools. It is a very important local food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African whitespotted rabbitfish?
The African whitespotted rabbitfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a spots pattern. Fine white and blue spots; venomous fin spines; schooling reef grazer
Where does the African whitespotted rabbitfish live?
The African whitespotted rabbitfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Indian Ocean
How big does the African whitespotted rabbitfish get?
The African whitespotted rabbitfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the African whitespotted rabbitfish dangerous to humans?
The African whitespotted rabbitfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If stung by the spines: immerse the affected part in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove visible spine fragments, and seek medical help for severe pain or swelling.
Is the African whitespotted rabbitfish edible?
Yes, the African whitespotted rabbitfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Siganus
More from the family Siganidae
Want the complete picture on the African whitespotted rabbitfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African whitespotted rabbitfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.