Swarthy Parrotfish
NameSwarthy Parrotfish
Scientific NameChlorurus sordidus
Common NamesSwarthy Parrotfish, Bullethead Parrotfish, Greenfin Parrotfish, Dark Parrotfish
FamilyScaridae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Red Sea, East Africa, Hawaii, Japan, Australia
Temperamentcommunity
Dietherbivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)16
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTangs, Large Wrasses, Groupers (in very large tanks), Triggerfish (compatible species), Other large, peaceful reef fish
Description
The Swarthy Parrotfish is a vibrant marine fish found throughout the Indo-Pacific coral reefs. It is known for its fused, beak-like teeth, which it uses to scrape algae from rocks and dead coral. This species is a crucial herbivore in reef ecosystems, helping to prevent algal overgrowth.
