Rabbitfish

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT
fast facts

About Rabbitfish

Size
Medium
Group
Saltwater
Temperament
Non-aggressive
Aquarium Size
Large (55 gal)
Swimming Region
All
Fish Water Condition
Suitable Tank Mates
Anthias, Basslets, Batfish, Clownfish, Gobies, Damsels, Hogfish and Tangs
Difficulty Of Care
Weekly care
ADVERTISEMENT

General description

Rabbitfish are a fairly large family of colorful saltwater fish. They are characterized by their rectangular bodies and small, protruding, rabbit-like mouths. Most species grow up to around 9 inches in length and are a very hardy species of marine fish. This along with their high disease resistance and peaceful temperament make them excellent choices for most beginner aquarists. Their anal, dorsal and pectoral fins have several poisonous spikes which it uses as a defense mechanism. For this reason it is extremely important to use gloves when handling this fish.

Rabbitfish are a fairly large family of colorful saltwater fish.

Origins

Rabbitfish are native to the shallow regions of the Indo-Pacific Ocean.

Color

Most species of rabbitfish are brightly colored and have intricate patterns on their bodies. They come in shades of black, yellow, blue and green.

Maintenance and care

ADVERTISEMENT

Rabbitfish are an extremely peaceful, timid species of fish and make excellent additions to most community aquariums. They can also be housed with more aggressive species of fish that leave them alone because of its venomous spines. Care should be taken when reaching into the rabbitfish aquarium as these fish are easily scared and can use their poisonous spikes at the slightest inclination of danger. While not lethal to humans, their sting can be extremely painful.

Rabbitfish prefer aquariums with large open swimming areas as well as numerous hiding places. They can be kept in large groups as juveniles but do turn territorial towards other rabbitfish as they reach maturity. Adults should be housed alone or in mated pairs.

Most species of rabbitfish are known to feed on live coral and caution is advised when keeping them in reef tanks. They however do not prey on smaller species of fish and other invertebrates.

Rabbitfish are an extremely peaceful, timid species of fish and make excellent additions to most community aquariums.

Feeding

Rabbitfish are herbivores and should be fed on a varied diet of flakes, pellets and fresh vegetables. They will also graze heartily on any algae growth in the aquarium.

Breeding

There are no reports of successful breeding attempts of rabbitfish in the home aquarium.

Aquarium varieties

Blue Spotted Rabbitfish, Decorated Rabbitfish, Two Barred Rabbitfish, Yellow Blotch Rabbitfish, etc.

Photo credit: jon hanson/Flickr; BS Thurner Hof/Wikimedia

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Dalmatian

Often associated as the kind of dogs who help firemen and police, the Dalmatian is a notoriously good workers and are known as an assertive, friendly breed.

The Luuup Litter Box Kickstarter Offers 3 Trays, No Mess

Never pick up cat poop again with the Luuup Litter Box. This 3 tray perpetual sifting litter system is just what finicky cat parents want in their homes.

Inspiring Children’s Book Honors Sandy Hook Victim And Therapy Dogs

Celebrating a little girl''s love of animals, ""Good Dogs, Great Listeners"" introduces children to therapy dogs while helping to foster a love for reading.

This AI-Powered Cat Food Bowl Uses Face ID to Stop Kibble Thieves

If you live in a multi-pet household or have furry neighbors visiting in through the cat door, Mookkie will be a real lifesaver.

Bluetick Coonhound

A friendly hunting dog, the Bluetick Coonhound loves to chase and corner its prey into trees, letting its owner know of its capture with a distinctive howl.

Broholmer

Also known as a Danish Mastiff, the Broholmer is a large dog from Denmark. Despite its size and powerful build, this breed is a calm and good-tempered dog.

Boxador

The Boxador is a cross between a purebred Boxer and Labrador Retriever. A good choice if you are looking for a guard dog who will also make a family pet.

Lhasalier

The Lhasalier is a mix between Cavalier King Charles Spanial and the Lhasa Apso. This designer dog is an ideal family pet.

Canadian Canine Oscar’s Chilly Response To Winter, Eh!

Having a small dog in a cold climate is a challenge. Having a small dog who hates everything to do with winter in a cold climate is a battle of wills.

Top 5 Best Supplements For Dry Skin On Dogs

Is your dog suffering from unstoppable itching that''s driving him crazy? Stop the scratching with common and proven remedies for dry skin on dogs.

Czechoslovakian Vlcak

The Czechoslovakian Vlcak or Czech Wolf Dog is a new breed of dog first bred as a military attack dog. It looks more like a wolf than it does a dog.

Snoop Dogg Releases Own Pet Accessory Line on Amazon

Looking fly won’t be difficult for your pet – at least not now when Snoop Dogg himself released a line of pet clothes, accessories, and other pet goodies for canines of all shapes and sizes.

Welsh Terrier

With personality plus, the Welsh Terrier is an outgoing and playful dog. This breed will keep his family entertained and in stitches for hours.

Best Slow-Feeder Bowls

Do you have a dog or cat that eats so quickly that they sometimes make themselves sick? If so, you’re not alone! This is a problem faced by many pet owners, including both dogs and cats. For some, it happens because your pet loves their food so much that they gobble down their meal out of excitement. For others, it’s a response to challenges in their past, eating their food as quickly as they can out of fear of it being taken away or stolen by another animal. Regardless of the reason, slowing your pet down is important. Not only can eating too fast make your pet feel ill, but it can lead to so

How Safe Is Your Cat From His Favorite Toys?

It''s all fun and games until someone (or some kitty) eats a toy. There are certain toys you should be wary of letting your cat get his paws on.