Common name: Quoy's parrotfish

General information

The Green Parrotfish, scientifically known as Scarus quoyi, is a vibrant and active species that adds both color and dynamic behavior to a marine aquarium. They are named for their parrot-like beak, which is used to scrape algae from hard surfaces. This beak is actually formed by fused dental plates, a unique feature among fish.

Care

Green Parrotfish require large aquariums due to their size and active swimming habits. They are best suited for fish-only or large reef tanks where they have plenty of space to move around. It's important to provide them with a varied diet that includes algae and marine-based plant matter to mimic their natural grazing behavior.

Reproduction

In the wild, Scarus quoyi exhibits complex mating behaviors and is known for its vibrant nuptial coloration during spawning. In the aquarium, breeding is rare and challenging, often requiring expert care and a very large, species-specific setup.

Habitat

Scarus quoyi is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to South Africa, east to the Line, Marquesan, and Society islands, north to southern Japan, and south to New Caledonia. They inhabit coral reefs and are often seen grazing on algae in these environments.