Streamlined spinefoot


The streamlined spinefoot is a species of rabbitfish. It grows to 20 to 40 cm long, and lives in shallow areas of the Indo-Pacific, typically ranging from 2 to 40 m deep. Like all rabbitfish, it has venomous spines on most of its fins. It has been reported to cause hallucinations when consumed.

Description

It has a blue body with a silvery underside, with dark-brown markings, mostly spots and curved lines; it has 13 venomous dorsal spines, seven anal spines, and silvery-yellow irises. Brown markings become more prominent when it is scared, and its fins will become rigid and erect. It has fine scales on the cheeks and gills; the midline of its thorax is without scales.

Diet

Siganus argenteus is a herbivore, feeding mainly on algae in shallow rocky areas and reefs. It is most commonly found in groups of 10 to 15.