Magnificent Foxface

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Eastern Indian Ocean, distributed in the Andaman Sea, from Thailand to Indonesia. Inhabits coastal coral reefs rich in benthic algae.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Family Siganidae. Commonly known as the Magnificent Foxface. Oval, compressed body with a fox-like snout and teeth adapted for grazing algae. Reaches about 23 cm.

Social Behavior: Generally peaceful toward other species but markedly intolerant of other members of its own family. Shy when exposed to sudden movements outside the tank.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Body split between black on the back and white on the belly, with a black snout striped in white and brilliant red-orange bordered fins. No sexual dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a tank of at least 450 liters with ample open swimming space and mature live rock covered with benthic algae for grazing.

Diet and Feeding: Herbivore. Main diet should consist of marine algae (nori), fresh blanched vegetables, and high-quality veggie dry food. Accepts brine shrimp occasionally.

Water Quality: Optimal marine parameters: temperature 22-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Requires a powerful protein skimmer.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Great tankmate for large community systems. May nip at soft corals or LPS if underfed. *VENOMOUS SPINES:* Exercise extreme caution during maintenance.

Aquarium Breeding: Undocumented in home aquariums. In the wild, they release pelagic eggs in large aggregations corresponding to lunar phases.

Risks and Diseases: The primary risk is represented by its venomous dorsal and anal spines which can inflict painful stings. Prone to stress-induced skin issues.