Biology of Rabbitfishes

Rabbitfishes (family Siganidae) are a vital yet often overlooked group of fishes in coral reef and seagrass ecosystems native to the tropical and subtropical Indo-Pacific region. Known broadly as herbivores with low comparative species diversity among tropical fishes, what makes rabbitfishes distinctive and how do these traits contribute to their ecological significance? This book delves into the biology, ecology, evolution, and behaviour of rabbitfishes, from their nutritional adaptations to their complex social behaviours and life histories. It also explores recent invasions into new habitats, their role in fisheries and aquaculture, and highlights promising directions for future research on these essential marine species.

Andrew S. Hoey (PhD, James Cook University) is a Professor of Marine and Aquaculture at James Cook University, Australia. His research focuses on the importance of species to the ecology, functioning and resilience of reef ecosystems, with a particular emphasis on the ecology of herbivorous fishes. He has broad experience working on reefs across the Indo-Pacific and tropical Atlantic, and has contributed to over 200 publications.

Brett M. Taylor (PhD, James Cook University) is an Assistant Professor at the University of Guam where he contributes to the Sea Grant Program and the Graduate Program in Biology. His research focuses on the life histories and ecology of commercially-harvested coral reef fish species. He has worked extensively on the reefs across the Indo-Pacific region and has contributed to over 70 publications.