Greenback Parrotfish
NameGreenback Parrotfish
Scientific NameScarus psittacus
Common NamesGreenback Parrotfish, Common Parrotfish, Palenose Parrotfish
FamilyScaridae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Red Sea, East Africa, French Polynesia
Temperamentcommunity
Dietherbivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)300
Max Size (Inches)15
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTangs, Large Angelfish, Triggerfish (select species), Other large Wrasses, Groupers (select species)
Description
The Greenback Parrotfish is a large, vibrant marine fish found in tropical reef environments. They are crucial herbivores, using their fused, beak-like teeth to scrape algae from rocks and coral, contributing significantly to reef health. Due to their size and specialized diet, they require very large, mature reef aquariums.
