White spotted Spinefoot

6th Dec 2022

Names

Scientific name: Siganus canaliculatus

Internationally, it is referred to as the White-spotted Spinefoot. Other names include “Pearly Spinefoot” and “White-spotted Rabbitfish”.  In the UAE, it is known as Safi Arabi (صافي عربي).




White-spotted Spinefoot shape and color

The White-spotted Spinefoot has a laterally compressed body that is moderately slender, that is greyish and brownish in color with plenty of whitish or bluish spots on its body, the pattern from which it derives its name. Please refer to the below image published by the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi

image

White-spotted Spinefoot - الصافي العربي




White-spotted Spinefoot habitat

The White-spotted Spinefoot is commonly found swimming in shallow areas around beds of seagrass and areas of algae abundance. It can also be found in deeper waters far offshore.




White-spotted Spinefoot feeding

The White-spotted Spinefoot is a herbivorous species, feeding mainly on algae and sea grass. 




White-spotted Spinefoot fishing season in the UAE

The White-spotted Spinefoot is not likely to be encountered on deep-sea fishing trips in Dubai, as such trips tend to target carnivorous or omnivorous fish species. White-spotted Spinefoot can be encountered throughout the year but tend to prefer the months from March to May.




White-spotted Spinefoot fishing method (how to catch White-spotted Spinefoot)

White-spotted Spinefoot fishing in the UAE can be successfully done through various fishing techniques including fishing rods (using herbivorous bait or feather hooks) and fish traps (locally known as Gargoor).




Fun facts about the White-spotted Spinefoot


  • The White-spotted Spinefoot has spines that are venomous and can cause very painful injuries, but they are not lethal.
  • The White-spotted Spinefoot is considered a local delicacy in the UAE and is often highly valuable in local fish markets.




White-spotted Spinefoot Minimum Legal Length: 24 cm.

Fishing Status: Not banned

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