Species Type:
Fishes
Common Name(s):
Stoplight parrotfish
Size:
These fish can reach lengths of 22 inches (55 centimeters) and weigh around 3.5 pounds (1.6 kilograms).
Diet:
These colorful fish graze on algae and corals growing on rocks and reefs.
Range & Habitat:
In the western Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea, stoplight parrotfish live in shallow water coral communities.
Details:
Parrotfish are bright teal with rounded faces and forked tails, accented by pink and yellow highlights on their tail, gill slit, head, and fins. Their beak-like mouths are perfect for eating algae and corals, helping prevent overgrowth and keeping reefs healthy. At night, they secrete a slimy mucus “sleeping bag” to hide their scent from predators.