Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown-spotted rabbitfish (Siganus stellatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Siganidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The brown-spotted rabbitfish is a reef fish of the family Siganidae from the Indo-West Pacific, from the Red Sea to the western Pacific. The species reaches about 40 cm and has a deep, compressed body with a fine pattern of dark and light spots and yellow tones. Adults live in pairs on coral reefs, while juveniles and subadults occur in schools; juveniles enter weedy estuaries. The fish grazes benthic seaweeds. The spines in the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins bear venom glands and can deliver a painful sting when handled. The species is regularly eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown-spotted rabbitfish?
The Brown-spotted rabbitfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Venomous spines in the dorsal, pelvic and anal fin; adults in pairs, juveniles in shoals.
Where does the Brown-spotted rabbitfish live?
The Brown-spotted rabbitfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific, from the Red Sea to the western Pacific.
How big does the Brown-spotted rabbitfish get?
The Brown-spotted rabbitfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Brown-spotted rabbitfish dangerous to humans?
The Brown-spotted rabbitfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and a sting causes acute, burning pain, swelling and redness. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as bearable (about 45 C) to break down the venom, remove any spine fragments and seek medical help for severe reactions.
Is the Brown-spotted rabbitfish edible?
Yes, the Brown-spotted rabbitfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Siganus
More from the family Siganidae
Want the complete picture on the Brown-spotted rabbitfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown-spotted rabbitfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.