Common name: Indian parrotfish

General information

The Steephead Parrotfish, Chlorurus capistratoides, is a colorful and intriguing species that adds both visual appeal and ecological value to a reef aquarium. This species is known for its vibrant colors and the distinctive bump on the head of adult males, which is where the alternative name 'Bumphead Parrotfish' comes from. They are active grazers and play a crucial role in the health of coral reefs by consuming algae and dead coral, which helps to prevent algal overgrowth and promotes coral growth.

Care

Caring for Steephead Parrotfish requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are best suited for larger systems due to their size and active swimming behavior. A varied diet that includes algae and marine-based plant matter is essential for their well-being. It's important to note that they can be quite destructive to corals and invertebrates, so they are not recommended for mixed reef tanks.

Reproduction

In the wild, Steephead Parrotfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males as they mature. They exhibit complex social structures and breeding behaviors, including the formation of harems by dominant males. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but environmental enrichment and stable conditions can encourage natural behaviors.

Habitat

Steephead Parrotfish are found in tropical and subtropical waters across the Indo-Pacific region. They prefer reef environments, often seen grazing on algae-covered surfaces. They can be found at various depths, typically from shallow waters to about 25 meters deep. Their natural habitat includes coral-rich areas and lagoons, where they contribute to the bioerosion and sand production processes essential for reef dynamics.