Common Parrotfish
Scarus psittacus
- Group: Parrotfish
- Typical depth: 2–25 m
- Max size: 43 cm
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: LC
One of the most widespread parrotfishes, it grazes algae off the reef in small feeding schools and wraps itself in a cocoon of mucus each night to mask its scent from predators. It reaches about 43 centimetres and works reef flats, lagoons and seaward slopes. There are reports of ciguatera poisoning from eating it.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Eupercaria incertae sedis › Labridae › Scarus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 219125.
FAQ
- How deep does the Common Parrotfish live?
- The Common Parrotfish (Scarus psittacus) is typically found at 2–25 m.
- Is the Common Parrotfish dangerous to divers?
- The Common Parrotfish is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Common Parrotfish get?
- The Common Parrotfish grows to about 43 cm.