Dilemma: What to do with my 9" Spinefoot?

[Merman1983]

I have a situation where a fish has grown too big. What do you do with a 9" spotted rabbitfish? (for all of you Greeks out there, that's a siganus punctatus.)
I caught this fish while legally fishing off a charter boat, and knew instantly what I had caught. Wondering how he got into the Gulf of Mexico was a big question that came to mind. I guess they're starting to take over.
So, what do I do with it? He was 4" when I caught him about 9 months ago, now he has grown to a gargantuan 9+" and climbing!
I'm afraid that he will eat my other fishies out of house and home.
It's a 225 gallon tank, but he stirs things up, and is a powerful swimmer.
When he gets angry, his spines stand up and it scares my children.
How big will this fish get, and are they good eatin'?
Thanks in advance.

[RadReefer]

I can't believe you caught that in the gulf. Wow, that's not good.:(

[M.phenax]

WOW! I can only think that the fish was dumped and somehow survived. I just Googled the species, and they are native to the western Pacific. They are herbivores and acheive around 16 inches (depending on sex) in length. Try contacting the Florida Aquarium in Tampa and see if they will take your fish. Heck, I would take it, but I am down three tanks right now :(

[Merman1983]

Thanks guys, I'm wondering if they taste anything like Tilapia. Checking out recipes now.

[jrobison]

I have heard they are good eating. Possibly even "sushi" grade. But I would try to find a new home.

[Merman1983]

Thanks J, i would trade him for 20 clams.

[Merman1983]

Here he is again trying to frighten everybody.
I think he is actually a lovable fish and he/she seems peaceful enough. The thing that worries me most is, what he might be capable of if he ever became angry or upset.

[jjk_reef00]

Rabbit fish in general are not aggressive, raising his spines is a defense mechanism.
Maybe try posting in your local forum and/or craigslist.

[Merman1983]

Thanks, I'm trying to download some photos of him, have to resize.
He's not aggressive, but just so big, and he looks angry. So far, no one has gotten hurt.

[Merman1983]

:fish2:

[Merman1983]

:fish2::fish2:

[FishBoy05]

I would keep him if I were you. They are very calm and peaceful. I found a fully grown one about 3 years ago at a fish store and thought it was awesome. I've had mine in my big tank with other large aggressive and some smaller non-aggressive fish. He doesn't bother anyone and they leave him alone. Here's a few pics. He's 16+ inches, the powder blue is 5 inches for reference.

[jjk_reef00]

Very cool looking fish.
FishBoy yours is a giant!

[Merman1983]

Wow, very very nice Fishboy, thanks for sharing!

[FishBoy05]

Wow, very very nice Fishboy, thanks for sharing!

They're just calm fish, I surprised you got 1 in the Gulf. KEEP HIM, Sure conversation starter with capt's or fish nerds.

http://audiojungle.net/item/turkey-gobble/5614627

[Merman1983]

Thanks, I will keep him!:fish1: