Common name: Forsten's parrotfish

General information

Forsten's Parrotfish, scientifically known as Scarus forsteni, is a vibrant and colorful species that adds both beauty and ecological function to a reef aquarium. This species is known for its remarkable ability to change colors and patterns throughout its life stages, which is a characteristic of many parrotfish. Juveniles typically exhibit different coloration compared to adults, with males often displaying more vivid colors.

Care

Forsten's Parrotfish require large, well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are herbivores and need a diet rich in algae and vegetable matter to thrive. It's important to note that they have beak-like teeth designed for scraping algae off hard surfaces, which can lead to the erosion of live rock structures over time.

Reproduction

In the wild, Scarus forsteni exhibits protogynous hermaphroditism, where individuals start life as females and can change to males as they mature. This complex reproductive strategy is not commonly replicated in home aquariums, and breeding Forsten's Parrotfish in captivity is quite challenging.

Habitat

Scarus forsteni is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They are commonly associated with coral reefs, where they play a crucial role in the ecosystem by grazing on algae and helping to prevent algal overgrowth on corals.