Fin's Fish Guide
The Forktail rabbitfish (Siganus argenteus) is a saltwater fish of the family Siganidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The streamlined spinefoot is a reef fish of the rabbitfish family (Siganidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a slender, streamlined, silvery body with fine yellow and blue speckling and a deeply forked tail, making it a fast swimmer. It inhabits coastal and inner reef slopes and lagoons and often forms large schools. As a herbivore it grazes algae and seagrass from the reef. The rabbitfish is a local food fish. The dorsal, pelvic and anal spines are venomous and give a painful puncture wound; therefore handle the fish with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Forktail rabbitfish?
The Forktail rabbitfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Slender, fast-swimming body with a deeply forked tail; venomous dorsal, pelvic and anal fin spines.
Where does the Forktail rabbitfish live?
The Forktail rabbitfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; coastal and inner reef slopes and lagoons.
How big does the Forktail rabbitfish get?
The Forktail rabbitfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Forktail rabbitfish dangerous to humans?
The Forktail rabbitfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Forktail rabbitfish edible?
Yes, the Forktail 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 Forktail rabbitfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Forktail rabbitfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.