Common name: Sicklefin parrotfish
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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyParrotfishScaridae
- GenusParrotfishScarus
- SpeciesSicklefin parrotfishScarus falcipinnis (Playfair, 1868)
- SynonymsCallyodon falcipinnis (Playfair, 1868)Callyodon improvisus Smith, 1956Callyodon pindae Smith, 1956Pseudoscarus 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.