Common name: Sicklefin parrotfish

Scientific name: Scarus falcipinnis (Playfair, 1868)

General information

The Sicklefin Parrotfish, scientifically known as Scarus falcipinnis, is a vibrant and active member of the reef community. This species is known for its striking coloration and the sickle-shaped fins that give it its common name. Parrotfish are essential to the health of coral reefs as they consume algae that can otherwise overwhelm coral populations.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
500 liter (130 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
45 cm (1′6″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Needs ample swimming space
Diet
Herbivore Algae-based diet; supplements beneficial
Social
Solo Territorial, especially with conspecifics
Reefsafe
No May nip at corals and clams
Aggression
Semi aggresive Can be aggressive towards smaller fish
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Parrotfish
    Scaridae
  6. Genus
    Parrotfish
    Scarus
  7. Species
    Sicklefin parrotfish
    Scarus falcipinnis (Playfair, 1868)
  8. Synonyms
    Callyodon falcipinnis (Playfair, 1868)
    Callyodon improvisus Smith, 1956
    Callyodon pindae Smith, 1956
    Pseudoscarus falcipinnis Playfair, 1868

Care

Sicklefin Parrotfish require large, well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are not the easiest fish to keep in captivity due to their size and dietary needs. A varied diet of marine algae, vegetables, and high-quality prepared foods is necessary to maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Sicklefin Parrotfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, starting life as females and potentially changing to males as they mature. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved by hobbyists.

Habitat

Sicklefin Parrotfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer outer reef slopes and drop-offs, where they can be seen grazing on algae-covered surfaces.