Orange-spotted
rabbitfish
Siganus guttatus
Family Siganidae
updated
Feb 11
Where
seen? This gaily spotted fish is sometimes seen on on our
Northern shores, among coral rubble. Sadly, often encountered trapped
in driftnets. It is said to be found in turbid reefs near mangroves
and appears to prefer places with lower salinity.
Features: To about 40cm, those
seen about 15-20cm. It is distinguished by the spotted pattern and
large golden spot below the dorsal fin near the tail which is about
the same diameter as the eye. The upper body is dusky blue, and lower
body silvery. The head has lines and spots. It has stout, venomous
spines.
Young fishes settle in seagrass beds near river mouths while adults
leave and enter rivers with the tides. Adults travel in groups of
10-15. Unlike other rabbitfishes, this species is said to be active
at night.
What does it eat? It eats algae
that grows on the sea bottom.
Human uses: Sold fresh in some places as food.
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Chek Jawa,
Aug 02

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Pulau Sekudu, Jul 04
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Tanah Merah, May 10
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Links
References
- Allen, Gerry,
2000. Marine Fishes of South-East Asia: A Field Guide for Anglers
and Divers. Periplus Editions. 292 pp.
- Lieske, Ewald
and Robert Myers. 2001. Coral
Reef Fishes of the World
Periplus Editions. 400pp.
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