Black Spot Foxface
A bright yellow rabbitfish with a black-and-white face and a distinct black flank spot. Hardy, useful against algae, and armed with venomous dorsal spines.
Feeding
Herbivorous. Dried marine algae daily, spirulina foods and blanched vegetables. An effective grazer on nuisance algae.
Compatibility
Peaceful toward fish and generally reef safe, though individuals may sample soft corals and zoanthids when underfed. Keep one per tank unless it is a bonded pair.
Behaviour and personality
Grazes constantly across the rockwork. Displays a mottled brown stress pattern when alarmed or asleep, returning to bright yellow within moments.
Before you buy
The dorsal spines are venomous and the sting is painful, so handle with care during maintenance and handling.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Color | Bright yellow with black-and-white face and black flank spot |
| Feeding Type | Herbivorous |
| Algae Control | Effective grazer on nuisance algae |
| Compatibility | Reef safe generally; may eat soft corals or zoanthids if underfed |
| Behavior | Constantly grazes on rockwork; shows stress pattern when alarmed or sleeping |
FAQ
Is the Black Spot Foxface safe to keep with soft corals?
It is generally reef safe, but may sample soft corals and zoanthids if underfed. Ensure proper feeding to minimize risk.
How often should I feed the Black Spot Foxface?
Feed daily with dried marine algae, spirulina, and blanched vegetables to maintain health and algae control.
What should I do if the fish shows a mottled brown pattern?
This is a stress or sleep pattern. The fish will return to bright yellow within moments. Ensure stable tank conditions and avoid sudden disturbances.
Chloe Duncan –
Great algae eater that constantly grazes on the rockwork. Very active and colorful. Only issue is the dorsal spines are painful to handle. Always wear gloves when cleaning or adjusting the tank.
Charles Payne –
Kept one in a 55-gallon reef tank. It helps control algae without being aggressive. Feeds well on spirulina and blanched spinach. Watch out for stress patterns when the tank is disturbed.
Joshua Martin –
The fish is vibrant and active. It moves around the tank constantly and keeps the algae under control. After a few weeks, it started showing a brown stress pattern when startled, which returned quickly. Very effective for reef maintenance.