Taxonomy of Finfish (1+2)

3.3.9.5.5 Siganidae (Spine foots, Rabbit fishes)

• Body laterally compressed
• Mouth small with a single row of fine, close-set teeth in each jaw
• Dorsal fin with 13 strong spines and 10 soft rays, preceded by a forward projecting spine
• Pelvic fins with 2 strong spines separated by 3 soft rays, character unique to the family
• Anal fin with 7 strong spine and 9 soft rays
• The spines are venomous

Eg. Siganus javus

Similar Families

All other families - Mostly 1 pelvic fin spine (2 in siganidae).

Acanthuridae - Bony plates or lancet like spines on each side of caudal peduncle and only 2 or 3 anal fin spines (7 in siganidae).