Masked Spinefoot Siganus puellus

The Masked Spinefoot, also called the Masked Rabbitfish, is native to coral reefs of the Indian Ocean and western Pacific. The dorsal spines, raised against predators, are venomous, but painful not lethal to humans. It grows to typically to 25cm long (can reach 38cm) and is herbivorous, eating algae and seaweed.

Adults pair up, often in single-sex pairs, as a mutual protection strategy since rabbitfishes are constantly nibbling at reefs and one of the pair can remain on lookout. Juveniles school together.