Parrotfish
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/93242958@N00">Derek Keats</a> from Johannesburg, South Africa (CC BY 2.0)
NameParrotfish
Scientific NameChlorurus sordidus
Common NamesParrotfish, Bullethead Parrotfish, Greenblotch Parrotfish
FamilyScaridae
OriginRed Sea, Indo-Pacific
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietherbivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)16
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTang species, Angelfish species, Wrasse species, Damselfish species, Triggerfish (non-aggressive types), Pufferfish (non-aggressive types)
Description
The Bullethead Parrotfish is a common and widespread species found in the Indo-Pacific, including the Red Sea. They are herbivores, using their fused, beak-like teeth to graze on algae from rocks and dead coral, playing a vital role in reef health. Like many parrotfish, they exhibit significant color changes throughout their life stages and often secrete a mucous cocoon at night for protection.
