How to Identify Goldspotted Spinefoot

To identify Goldspotted Spinefoot (Siganus corallinus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Bright yellow to orange-brown body, densely covered with numerous small, iridescent blue or gold spots. The spots are typically more prominent on the head and anterior part of the body. The fins are generally yellow, often with a bluish tint on the dorsal and anal fins. Juveniles are often a more intense yellow.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Small, round, iridescent blue or gold spots covering the entire body., A small, rabbit-like mouth with incisor-like teeth., Venomous spines in the dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins.

Dorsal fin

13 spines, 10 soft rays. The spines are venomous.

Tail fin

Slightly forked to emarginate.

Pectoral fin

16-17 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins have 1 spine and 3 soft rays, flanked by another spine (I,3,I formula), which is characteristic of the Siganidae family and venomous.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Spotting

   The most distinguishing feature is the bright yellow to orange-brown body covered with numerous small, iridescent blue or gold spots. The intensity and color of the spots can vary slightly.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Laterally compressed, oval-shaped body, typical of rabbitfishes.

3. 3

   Fin Spines

   Presence of strong, venomous spines in the dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins. The pelvic fin formula (I,3,I) is unique to rabbitfishes.

4. 4

   Mouth

   Small, terminal mouth with a single row of incisor-like teeth, adapted for grazing algae.

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