Discover expert tips for Foxface Rabbitfish care, including tank setup, diet, lifespan, max size, and tank mates. Learn how to keep this hardy algae-eating reef fish healthy and colorful.
Every aquarist has that one fish that makes everything easier, and for me, it was the Foxface Rabbitfish. Not only is this fish gorgeous with its bold yellow and black markings, but it’s also a tireless algae grazer that helps keep tanks clean.
👉 Quick Answer: Foxface Rabbitfish care requires a large tank (minimum 100 gallons), plenty of swimming space, a mixed herbivore diet, and compatible tank mates. They grow up to 10 inches and live 5–7 years in captivity.
When I first introduced a Foxface Rabbitfish into my reef, I was worried about aggression. But instead, I got a peaceful, hardworking fish that quickly became a tank favorite—both for me and for anyone who visited.
Foxface Rabbitfish Size & Max Size
👉 Short Answer: The Foxface Rabbitfish typically grows to 8–10 inches, with a max size of around 12 inches in captivity.
This isn’t a small fish, and size is the main reason why they require larger tanks. A juvenile may look small and manageable in the store, but don’t be fooled—they grow quickly.
💡 Tip: If you’re upgrading tanks, plan for their adult size. A 100-gallon setup is the bare minimum, but a 125-gallon or larger gives them the freedom they deserve.
Foxface Rabbitfish Lifespan
👉 Short Answer: The average lifespan of a Foxface Rabbitfish in captivity is 5–7 years, though some live longer with excellent care.
Their longevity depends on stable water conditions, a strong diet, and low stress levels. Many beginners underestimate how much consistency matters. Fluctuations in temperature, pH, or salinity can shorten their life.
From my experience, Foxfaces do best in mature tanks with established algae growth. I had one live for almost 8 years simply because I provided varied greens and kept water changes regular.
Foxface Rabbitfish Tank Setup
👉 Short Answer: A Foxface Rabbitfish needs a 100+ gallon tank with strong filtration, live rock for grazing, open swimming areas, and a secure lid.
Here’s the ideal tank setup checklist:
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Tank Size: 100 gallons minimum, 125+ preferred.
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Filtration: Strong filtration (protein skimmer recommended).
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Aquascape: Mix of live rock for grazing and open water for swimming.
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Lid: Secure, as Foxfaces may jump if startled.
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Lighting: Moderate reef lighting (supports algae growth they graze on).
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Water Parameters:
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Temp: 74–78°F
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.023–1.025
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Nitrates: <20 ppm
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Foxface Rabbitfish Diet
👉 Short Answer: Foxface Rabbitfish are herbivores that thrive on algae, seaweed sheets, and high-quality herbivore pellets. They also accept some meaty foods.
Best foods include:
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Seaweed Sheets – Two Little Fishies SeaVeggies (staple diet).
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Herbivore Pellets – New Life Spectrum AlgaeMax (balanced nutrition).
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Frozen Foods – Mysis shrimp or brine shrimp as supplements.
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Fresh Greens – Blanched spinach, zucchini, or lettuce occasionally.
💡 Feeding Tip: Offer a seaweed clip daily. Foxfaces are natural grazers and will spend hours nibbling. A hungry Foxface is often a stressed Foxface.
When I added daily nori sheets, my Foxface’s yellow coloration became more vibrant. It also drastically reduced nuisance algae in my reef tank.
Foxface Rabbitfish Tank Mates
👉 Short Answer: Foxface Rabbitfish are peaceful and compatible with most reef-safe fish, but avoid housing them with aggressive species.
Great tank mates include:
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Tangs
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Wrasses
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Angelfish
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Butterflyfish
Avoid:
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Aggressive triggers
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Large predatory groupers
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Very small, timid gobies that may get stressed
💡 Experience Note: In my mixed reef, my Foxface coexisted peacefully with a Yellow Tang and Flame Angelfish. The only conflict arose when a Powder Blue Tang tried to claim territory, but after a week, they established balance.
Foxface Rabbitfish Behavior & Temperament
👉 Short Answer: Foxface Rabbitfish are peaceful, shy when stressed, but bold grazers once settled.
They’re known for their unique “color change.” When frightened, their bright yellow fades into a mottled brown/gray camouflage. The first time I saw this, I thought my fish was sick! But it’s perfectly normal.
They also have venomous dorsal spines, which they use defensively. While they rarely sting tank mates, always handle with caution when moving them.
💡 Pro Tip: If your Foxface is constantly hiding or showing stress coloration, check for bullying tank mates or unstable water conditions.
Foxface Rabbitfish Venom: Should You Worry?
👉 Short Answer: Yes, Foxface Rabbitfish have venomous spines, but they are not aggressive toward humans. The sting feels similar to a bee sting.
Most aquarists never get stung, but it’s important to know. If stung:
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Immerse the affected area in hot (not scalding) water for 30–90 minutes.
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Pain usually subsides, but seek medical attention if swelling spreads.
I’ve kept Foxfaces for years and never been stung, but I always wear aquarium gloves when rearranging rockwork—just in case.
Foxface Rabbitfish Lifespan: How to Extend It
👉 Short Answer: Stable water parameters, a varied diet, and low-stress tank mates extend the Foxface Rabbitfish lifespan.
Think of them like marathon swimmers—they thrive in stable, predictable conditions. Consistency is everything. Avoid sudden salinity swings or cramped quarters, and you’ll have a long-living companion.
Common Health Issues in Foxface Rabbitfish
👉 Short Answer: Foxfaces are hardy but may suffer from ich, stress-related color changes, and malnutrition if not fed properly.
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Ich (white spot disease): Prevent with quarantine and UV sterilizers.
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Color fading: Usually stress, not illness.
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Nutritional deficiencies: Fixed by adding varied greens and pellets.
💡 Product Tip: Seachem Garlic Guard works great to boost appetite if your Foxface goes off food.
Foxface Rabbitfish in Reef Tanks
👉 Short Answer: Foxface Rabbitfish are reef safe with caution—they may nibble on soft corals if underfed.
I’ve had success keeping mine in a mixed reef with LPS and SPS corals. The only time it showed interest in corals was when I skipped feeding algae sheets for a few days. Keep them well-fed, and they’ll stick to grazing algae.
Quick Foxface Rabbitfish Care Guide
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Tank Size: 100 gallons minimum
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Max Size: 12 inches
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Lifespan: 5–7 years (sometimes longer)
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Diet: Herbivore diet with algae sheets, pellets, and frozen foods
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Tank Mates: Peaceful to semi-aggressive species (avoid predators)
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Special Note: Venomous dorsal spines—handle with care
Final Thoughts: Why I Always Recommend the Foxface Rabbitfish
If you want a reef-safe algae grazer that’s hardy, colorful, and full of personality, the Foxface Rabbitfish is a perfect choice.
👉 Recap of Key Points:
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Large fish requiring at least a 100-gallon tank.
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Peaceful, with bright yellow coloration that camouflages when stressed.
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Lifespan of 5–7 years with proper care.
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Herbivore diet with daily algae sheets.
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Compatible with most community reef fish.
Every time I look at my Foxface Rabbitfish, I see more than just a fish—I see a hardworking partner keeping my reef tank balanced. For beginners and experienced aquarists alike, this fish is truly a must-have for a thriving marine aquarium.