Masked Rabbitfish

(1 customer review)

Last time this was in stock, it was £49.00

7-9cm

Masked Rabbitfish / Double Barred Rabbitfish

  • Common Name: Masked Rabbitfish,
  • Latin Name: Siganus virgatus
  • Distribution: The Masked Rabbitfish is naturally occurring in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Arabian Sea.
  •  Max Size: Up to 25 centimetres (9.8 inches) in length.
  • Temperature Range: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
  • pH Range: 8.1-8.4
  •  KH Range: 8-12 dKH
  • Care Level: Moderate to Difficult (Note: These fish are a bit on the delicate side in terms of care level.)
  • Lighting Preference: Moderate to High lighting levels.
  • Preferred Food: Herbivorous diet consisting of algae, seaweed, and quality commercial herbivore foods.
  • Behaviour: Masked Rabbitfish are generally peaceful but can become territorial towards their own species or similar-looking fish. They may also nip at corals and other invertebrates.
  • Suitable for Reef Tanks: It is generally not recommended to keep Masked Rabbitfish in reef tanks due to their potential coral-nipping behaviour.
  • Discoverer: The Masked Rabbitfish was not specifically named for an individual discoverer.
  • Interesting Facts:
  1. The Masked Rabbitfish gets its name from the distinct dark mask-like markings on its face.
  2. These fish have a laterally compressed body shape, allowing them to manoeuvre easily through coral reef environments.
  3. Like other rabbitfish species, they possess a specialized set of teeth in their throat that helps them chew and digest tough plant material.

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DRY GOODS

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Free shipping on orders over £50 (may exclude some aquariums)  Geographical restrictions may apply

LIVESTOCK = Fish, Critters and Corals

Minimum order value £30Delivery charge £19.99. Delivery days Are Varied At The Moment.  We will contact you to confirm your delivery day. Some geographical restrictions apply See shipping

Aquarium Plants: Are shipped the same as and can be mixed with Dry goods *Free shipping on orders over £50 or £6.99 for orders under £50. Some geographical restrictions may apply.

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The Masked Rabbitfish (Siganus virgatus) also go by the name Double Barred Rabbitfish. This is a striking fish known for its unique appearance and vibrant colours. It can grow up to a maximum size of around 10 inches (25 centimetres), making it a moderate-sized fish for aquariums.

Taxonomy

The Masked Rabbitfish belongs to the genus Siganus and the family Siganidae. It is closely related to other species within the Siganus genus, such as Siganus lineatus (lined rabbitfish) and Siganus canaliculatus (white-spotted spinefoot). The etymology of the genus name “Siganus” is derived from the Greek word “sigano,” which means “rabbitfish.”

Natural Habitat

The Masked Rabbitfish inhabits tropical coral reefs and rocky areas within its natural habitat. It prefers areas with ample hiding places, such as crevices and coral formations. These habitats provide the rabbitfish with protection and shelter, allowing them to feel secure.

Keeping the Masked Rabbitfish Healthy

The Masked Rabbitfish requires a moderate level of care and is suitable for intermediate aquarists. Providing a well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters is essential for their health and well-being. Regular monitoring of water temperature, salinity, pH levels, and filtration is recommended.

Special Requirements and Feeding

Masked Rabbitfish are herbivorous and have specific dietary requirements. They primarily feed on various types of marine algae, seaweed, and other plant matter. It is important to provide them with a well-balanced diet that includes high-quality commercial herbivore food, along with occasional offerings of fresh or frozen marine vegetables.

How Many Should I Keep?

Masked Rabbitfish can be kept individually or in small groups in a spacious aquarium. However, their territorial nature should be considered when deciding on the number of fish to keep. Providing ample swimming space and hiding spots will help minimize aggression among multiple individuals.

Lighting Preference

The Masked Rabbitfish does well under moderate to high lighting levels in the aquarium. Adequate lighting supports the growth of beneficial algae and provides a more natural environment for the fish.

Suitable Tank Mates

The Masked Rabbitfish is generally peaceful but may exhibit aggression towards similar species or other rabbitfish. Suitable tank mates include other peaceful fish species that inhabit reef or community aquariums. However, caution should be exercised when selecting tank mates to ensure compatibility and minimize territorial disputes.

In summary, the Masked Rabbitfish (Siganus virgatus) is a visually appealing fish that adds vibrancy to aquariums. It has specific dietary requirements and thrives in a well-maintained tank with stable water parameters. Providing suitable tank mates and ample hiding places will contribute to their overall well-being. With proper care, the Masked Rabbitfish can be a captivating addition to a marine aquarium setup.

Reproduction in the Wild

The Masked Rabbitfish (Siganus virgatus) follows a specific reproductive process in the wild to ensure the survival of their species.

The reproductive cycle of the Masked Rabbitfish begins with courtship behaviours. Males and females engage in various displays and movements to attract potential mates.

Once courtship is successful, the female releases her eggs into the water column. At the same time, the male releases sperm into the water to fertilize the eggs externally. This external fertilization method is common among many marine fish species.

The number of eggs produced can vary, ranging from hundreds to thousands, depending on the size and maturity of the female. The eggs are small and buoyant, allowing them to float freely in the water.

Breeding Siganus virgatus

  1. Set up:

To breed Masked Rabbitfish in captivity, it is essential to provide a well-maintained aquarium with appropriate conditions. The tank should have ample swimming space, hiding spots, and suitable water parameters.

  1. Courtship/Spawning:

In preparation for spawning, the male and female Masked Rabbitfish engage in courtship behaviours. This may involve displaying vibrant colours, extended finnage, and chasing each other. Once courtship is successful, the female releases her eggs into the water column, and the male releases sperm to fertilize them externally.

  1. Rearing: After fertilization, the eggs float freely in the water column. The larvae hatch from the eggs and undergo a period of development. During this time, they rely on their yolk sacs for nutrition. As they grow, the larvae undergo metamorphosis, gradually transforming into juvenile Masked Rabbitfish.

Sexual Dimorphism

Sexual dimorphism in the Masked Rabbitfish is not prominent, with males and females generally appearing similar in appearance. It can be challenging to visually distinguish between the sexes based on external characteristics alone.

Distribution

The Masked Rabbitfish, Siganus virgatus, is naturally distributed in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Arabian Sea. It can be found in various coral reef habitats, particularly those with ample hiding places and suitable food sources.

Summary

The Masked Rabbitfish (Siganus virgatus) is a visually striking fish known for its unique appearance. It follows a specific reproductive process in the wild, involving courtship, spawning, and the rearing of their offspring. Breeding Masked Rabbitfish in captivity requires a well-maintained aquarium setup with appropriate conditions. The distribution of the Masked Rabbitfish spans the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea. Understanding the reproductive behaviour and requirements of this species contributes to its successful breeding and conservation in captivity.

1 review for Masked Rabbitfish

  1. Blair Stewart-Henderson (verified owner)

    So fun to watch. Really active. Very peaceful but a nori eating machine. Constantly having to add more to my clip to keep up with him

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Dry Goods Delivery.

The store has provided information regarding their order dispatch and estimated delivery times. Here are the key details:

  1. Dispatch Timeframe: Orders placed before 2pm will be dispatched on the same day. Orders placed after 2pm will be dispatched on the next working day.
  2. Delivery Date and Time Guarantee: While the store aims to dispatch orders promptly, they cannot guarantee a specific delivery date and time. As the delivery process relies on couriers, there may be factors beyond their control that could affect the delivery timeframe.
  3. 1st Class Mail: For orders sent via 1st Class mail, the aim is to have them delivered on the next working day after dispatch.
  4. 2nd Class Mail: Orders sent via 2nd Class mail typically take approximately 2-3 working days for delivery after dispatch.
  5. APC Next Day Delivery: APC Next Day delivery is available for UK mainland postcodes. It is usually delivered on the next working day after dispatch. However, please note that items being delivered to more remote areas may require additional time for delivery.

It’s important to keep in mind that while the store strives to provide efficient delivery services, unforeseen circumstances or external factors could potentially impact delivery times. For further details or specific inquiries about delivery, customers should refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Livestock Delivery.

The store maintains specific policies regarding the delivery of livestock. Here are the key points:

  1. Licensed Livestock Courier: The store exclusively uses a licensed livestock courier for shipping fish and coral. This approach is chosen to ensure responsible and ethical transportation of the livestock.
  2. Livestock Shipping Fee: The livestock shipping fee charged to customers of £19.99 does not cover the true cost, and therefore, there is a minimum spend requirement of £30.00 before the option for livestock shipping becomes available.
  3. Pre-Arranged Delivery: The store never ships livestock without first arranging a suitable delivery day. Before dispatching the livestock, the store must confirm the agreed-upon delivery day with the customer.
  4. Saturday Delivery Confirmation: Customers who choose Saturday delivery must have their availability confirmed for the upcoming Saturday before the store sends out the livestock. This confirmation ensures that the livestock can be received promptly.
  5. Failure to wait for livestock: Not waiting for livestock, even if there is a reasonable delay, or cancelling an order after it has been dispatched will lead to you incurring charges for an emergency return to the base. Additionally, any losses of livestock will also be charged to you. Please be aware that the items you are ordering are living creatures – livestock. We kindly ask that you refrain from ordering livestock if you are unable to accommodate the possibility of a delayed delivery.

    These terms and conditions are a fundamental aspect of our policy. Our primary goal is to dissuade individuals who could react negatively to a delayed delivery and subsequently request order cancellations. It is of utmost importance to underscore that your order pertains to living creatures, not mere inanimate objects. In the event of an occasional delay, it is crucial that you respond in a rational and responsible manner, taking into account the welfare of the livestock. We kindly request that you refrain from placing an order for livestock if you tend to react strongly to such situations. By proceeding with the order of livestock, you indicate your acceptance and agreement to abide by these specified terms and conditions.

  6. Signature Requirement: Livestock deliveries require a signature upon receipt and cannot be left in a safe location. This precaution ensures proper handling and the well-being of the livestock.
  7. Geographic Restrictions: The courier has strict geographic restrictions for livestock deliveries. Unfortunately, deliveries to Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man, Isles of Scilly, Channel Islands, and certain Scottish offshore postcodes may not be possible. Customers are encouraged to contact the store via email to confirm if livestock delivery is available in their area.
  8. Minimum Order Value and Order Cancellations: The store has a minimum order value of £30 for livestock shipping. Additionally, the store reserves the right to cancel orders that are deemed high-risk or involve a high number of single tropical freshwater fish species.

It is essential for customers to familiarize themselves with these policies before making a purchase. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or reach out to the store directly for clarification.

Livestock Geographical Exemptions.

The store has specific geographical exemptions for livestock deliveries. Here is a list of the areas and postcodes where livestock delivery is not available:

  1. Islands: Livestock cannot be delivered to the Shetlands, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man.
  2. Postcodes: Livestock delivery is not available to the following postcodes:
  • AB30 to AB39, AB41 to AB45, AB51 to AB56
  • DD8 to DD10
  • BT all
  • DG3 to DG9, DG12 to DG14
  • KA18 to KA19, KA26, KA29 to KA30
  • HS all
  • IM all
  • JE all
  • ZE all
  • KW15 to KW17
  • TD9
  • FK17 to FK21
  • GY all
  • KA26, to KA28
  • PA20 to PA38, PA41 to PA49, PA60 to PA61, PA76 to PA78
  • TR21, to TR25
  • PH3 to PH26, PH30 to PH44
  • IV all

Customers residing in these areas should be aware that livestock delivery is not available to their location.

We can ship livestock to the Isle of Wight, this area is subject to a surcharge.

For further information or specific inquiries about livestock delivery to a particular area, customers are advised to contact the store directly for clarification.

Cancellation.

According to the store’s policy, customers have the right to cancel an order within 14 working days of receiving the goods. To initiate the cancellation, the goods must be returned to the store in new and unused condition, adhering to their Returns Policy.

Important points regarding the return process are as follows:

  1. Return Condition: The goods must be returned in new and unused condition, as originally received. It is important to ensure that the goods are in the same condition as when they were sent out.
  2. Return Timeframe: The goods must be received by the store within 21 days of notifying them about the cancellation. During this time, customers are responsible for any loss or damage that may occur during the return shipping process.
  3. Refund Process: Once the store receives the goods in new and unused condition, they will initiate the refund process. The purchase price will be refunded to the customer.
  4. Return Condition Inspection: If the returned goods arrive in a condition that is less than what they were sent out in, the store reserves the right to return the goods to the customer, and no refund will be processed.

It is essential for customers to carefully review the store’s Returns Policy and follow the specified procedures to ensure a smooth and successful return and refund process. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Returns.

According to the store’s return policy, the following guidelines should be followed for returning goods:

  1. Use Returns Form: Customers need to use the store’s provided returns form to initiate the return process. This form helps the store acknowledge that the goods are being sent back.
  2. Return for Testing: If the goods are being returned for testing, the customer is responsible for covering the return shipping expenses.
  3. Refund of Postage Fees: The store will only refund postage fees if the order arrives damaged or becomes faulty within the first 4 weeks of purchase. Proof of posting is important, and customers should ensure the goods are well-packed and obtain proof of posting as the goods remain their responsibility until received by the store.
  4. Refund of Postage Costs for Replacement: If goods are being returned within 7 days of purchase under the Replacement Policy, the store can refund postage costs. However, the customer needs to agree on a delivery service with the store in advance, and only standard or tracked shipping fees will be refunded. The store cannot refund the cost of any special delivery service.
  5. Non-Refundable Postage: Postage costs for goods returned for any other reason than those mentioned above are non-refundable. The store reserves the right to deduct the original postage cost from any applicable refund.
  6. Mistaken Purchases: If a customer has made a mistake in their purchase, they need to return the goods to the store. The customer is responsible for the return shipping costs in such cases.

It is important for customers to carefully follow the store’s return procedures and terms and conditions. For further details or specific inquiries, customers should refer to the store’s website or contact the store directly.

Replacements

If customers receive faulty goods, the following guidelines apply according to the store’s policy:

  1. Notification of Faulty Goods: Customers must notify the store within 7 working days if they receive faulty goods. This notification should be made as soon as possible.
  2. Replacement Parts: If possible, the store will dispatch replacement parts for the faulty goods.
  3. Return of Goods: If replacement parts are not possible, the store may request customers to return the faulty goods in accordance with their Returns Policy. The specific return procedures and conditions should be followed.
  4. Verification of Damage: Once the store receives the returned goods, they will verify the damage. If the damage is confirmed, the store will supply the required replacements.
  5. Return Postage Costs: If the goods returned to the store are found to be in good working order, the store is not able to refund the return postage costs. Additionally, the store reserves the right to deduct their original postage cost from any applicable refund.
  6. Consequential Loss or Damage: The store cannot take responsibility for any consequential loss or damage that arises directly or indirectly from the goods supplied.

Customers should carefully review and adhere to the store’s Returns Policy and procedures for returning faulty goods. For further clarification or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Manufacturer’s Guarantees

The store works in collaboration with manufacturers to ensure that their guarantees are honored, and they make their best efforts to resolve issues within the warranty period. The following guidelines apply to refunds and replacements:

  1. Postage Costs under Manufacturer’s Guarantee: Postage costs can only be refunded if the goods are returned to the store within 7 days of the original purchase, as per the manufacturer’s guarantee.
  2. Refund of Postage Costs for Faulty Goods: The store will refund postage costs for guarantee/warranty returns only if the product becomes faulty within the first 4 weeks of receipt.
  3. Replacements with Manufacturer Authorization: Replacements, whether parts or goods, can only be offered when authorized by the manufacturer. Customers should contact the store for further guidance in such cases.
  4. Prior Approval for Returns: Goods should not be returned to the store without prior approval. Customers need to contact the store and obtain approval before returning any items.
  5. Replacement of Glass or Ceramic Items: Glass or ceramic items can only be replaced if the store is notified within 48 hours of receiving the delivery.
  6. Replacement of Glass Bulbs/Tubes: Glass bulbs or tubes can only be replaced if they become faulty within 14 days.

Customers should note and adhere to these guidelines to ensure a smooth and efficient resolution of any issues with their purchased items. For specific inquiries or further information, customers are advised to refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Breakages

According to the store’s policy, customers have the following responsibilities regarding breakages:

  1. Checking Goods on Arrival: It is the customer’s responsibility to thoroughly check the goods upon arrival for any damage. This should be done before signing for the parcel. If the parcel appears damaged, it is advised not to sign for it.
  2. Reporting Breakages: Any breakages or damages must be reported to the store within 48 hours of receiving the goods. It is important to promptly notify the store to initiate the resolution process.

By carefully inspecting the goods upon arrival and reporting any breakages within the specified timeframe, customers can ensure that appropriate actions are taken to address the issue. For specific instructions on reporting breakages or further information, customers should refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.