Common name: Tan-faced parrotfish

General information

The Pacific Parrotfish, also known as the Bullethead Parrotfish, is a vibrant and active member of the reef community. With its distinct beak-like teeth, it plays a crucial role in the health of coral reefs by grazing on algae and dead coral, which helps to prevent algal overgrowth and promote coral growth.

Care

Caring for Pacific 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 will help maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Pacific Parrotfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, starting life as females and potentially changing to males as they mature. They exhibit complex social structures and breeding behaviors, which are challenging to replicate in captivity.

Habitat

Chlorurus frontalis is commonly found in shallow, tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They prefer coral-rich areas and lagoons, where they can be seen grazing throughout the day.