Mottled spinefoot (Siganus fuscescens) is a saltwater, brackish species recorded in Hong Kong, Taiwan. It is mainly found over reef, seagrass, estuary, at depths of 1–50 m. The main season in Hong Kong, Taiwan runs all year.
Scientific name: Siganus fuscescens · Water: Saltwater, Brackish · Season: All year
Size: 10–32 cm
Weight: 0.1–1 kg
The mottled spinefoot is a laterally compressed, finely spotted rabbitfish whose dorsal and anal spines are venomous. Its range spans the western Pacific, from southern Korea and southern Japan through the Ogasawara Islands, Taiwan and southern China to Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Andaman Islands, Indonesia, the Philippines, Yap, Palau, Pohnpei, the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, New Caledonia and Australia, and it has often been confused with Siganus canaliculatus. It is found year-round around coastal reefs, breakwaters and river mouths, grazing on algae and detritus in loose schools. Catchable throughout the year, it is one of Hong Kong's most widespread entry-level shore species and is especially common in winter rock fishing.
Caution: has venomous spines. Take great care when unhooking and handling; the sting is extremely painful.
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