Magnificent Foxface

Also known as Magnificent Rabbitfish, Red Fin Foxface

The Magnificent Foxface is a spectacular and highly sought-after species featuring vibrant yellow and white coloration accented with striking red-orange markings on the face and fins. This is one of the most beautiful foxface species available, combining the excellent algae-eating abilities of the genus with truly stunning coloration. Hardy and personable like other foxface species, this premium variety commands higher prices due to its exceptional beauty and relative rarity.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Siganus magnificus
• Common Names: Magnificent Foxface, Magnificent Rabbitfish, Andaman Foxface
• Adult Size: Up to 9 inches
• Lifespan: 8-12 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful; becomes bold and interactive
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe with caution; generally leaves corals alone when well-fed
• Minimum Tank Size 125+ gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Intermediate; venomous spines require careful handling

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Provide substantial open swimming areas with extensive live rock formations for grazing and shelter. Include caves and overhangs for security and nighttime resting. Strong water flow and excellent water quality. Established systems with natural algae growth ideals. Complex aquascaping provides grazing surfaces and reduces stress.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Stable, high-quality water conditions essential

Equipment Recommendations:

• Quality filtration system
• Protein skimmer
• Moderate to strong water circulation
• Natural algae growth beneficial

These maintain optimal conditions for this active herbivore.

Diet & Feeding

Magnificent Foxface are primarily herbivores requiring frequent feeding.

Recommended foods include:

• Primary: Marine algae sheets (nori), dried seaweed
• Fresh Foods: Fresh marine macroalgae (Gracilaria, Caulerpa, Ulva)
• Staples: Spirulina flakes, herbivore pellets, algae wafers
• Supplemental: Veggie-based frozen foods, blanched vegetables
• Occasional: Small amounts of meaty foods (mysis shrimp, spirulina-enriched brine shrimp)

Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily; constant grazing species

Special Note: Excellent algae eater; will consume hair algae, bubble algae, and various nuisance algae enthusiastically. Frequent feeding is essential to maintain vibrant coloration and prevent coral nipping. A high-quality varied diet enhances the red-orange coloration.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Tankmates: Peaceful toward most fish species; excellent community fish
• Bold Personality: Initially cautious but quickly becomes confident and personable
• Territorial: May be aggressive toward other foxface or rabbitfish species
• Solitary: Best kept as single foxface specimen
• Reef Behavior: Generally reef safe; rarely nips at corals when properly fed

Notes & Considerations

• Absolutely stunning coloration: One of the most beautiful foxface species.
• Vibrant yellow and white body with striking red-orange facial markings.
• Red-orange coloration extends onto dorsal and caudal fins.
• Pattern and color intensity varies individually; some specimens are more vibrant than others.
• High-quality diet enhances red-orange coloration significantly.
• More colorful than standard foxface; premium appearance.
• Commands higher prices due to beauty and relative rarity.
• Limited collection range (primarily Andaman Sea region).
• Outstanding algae controller like all foxface species.
• Will eagerly consume hair algae, bubble algae, and other nuisance species.
• Constantly grazes on live rock surfaces throughout the day.
• VENOMOUS SPINES: Dorsal spines contain potent venom.
• Spine stings are extremely painful; can cause severe localized pain and swelling.
• Pain can persist for several hours; medical attention may be needed.
• Always exercise extreme caution when handling or maintaining a tank.
• Never attempt to handle it with bare hands.
• Use nets carefully; always be aware of spine locations.
• Hot water immersion (as hot as tolerable) helps break down venom and relieve pain.
• Keep first aid supplies and hot water readily available.
• Spines are purely defensive; fish are not naturally aggressive.
• Initially may be shy after introduction.
• Quickly becomes bold, confident, and interactive once acclimated.
• Develops a strong personality and recognizes the owner.
• Often begs for food at glass during feeding times.
• Generally very peaceful toward other fish species.
• May become territorial toward other foxface or rabbitfish species.
• Only one foxface per tank is recommended unless the system is very large (180+ gallons).
• Active swimmer once comfortable; patrols the entire tank while grazing.
• May nip at soft corals or LPS if severely underfed (rare with proper feeding).
• Generally leaves SPS and most corals completely alone.
• Proper frequent feeding prevents any coral nipping behavior.
• Displays dramatic color change at night: develops dark mottled camouflage pattern.
• Nighttime color change is completely normal; returns to vibrant coloration at dawn.
• May also display mottled stress coloration when frightened; recovers quickly.
• Often sleeps wedged into rockwork or caves.
• Hardy once established; relatively disease-resistant.
• Adapts well to aquarium life and prepared foods.
• Can grow quickly with proper nutrition.
• Long-lived with proper care.
• Native to Andaman Sea and Eastern Indian Ocean.
• Most specimens are wild-caught from limited range.
• Excellent choice for aquarists wanting premium foxface species.

Why Choose a Quarantined Magnificent Foxface?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, fully acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and trained to accept varied prepared algae-based foods before sale. Given the premium price and relative rarity of this species, proper quarantine provides essential protection for your investment. Our quarantine process ensures optimal health, vibrant coloration, and the strongest foundation for long-term success with this spectacular species. Always exercise extreme caution around venomous spines.