The Batavian parrotfish (Scarus psittacus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scaridae that grows up to 43 cm.
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Description
The common parrotfish is a parrotfish (Scaridae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm; females are red-brown, while males colour blue-green with pink tints. With its parrot-like beak teeth it scrapes algae from coral and rock, grinding limestone into sand. It inhabits reef flats, lagoons and seaward reefs to at least 25 m deep. Like many parrotfishes it is a protogynous hermaphrodite and spins a mucus cocoon at night. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Batavian parrotfish?
The Batavian parrotfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Beak teeth grind coral into sand; protogynous hermaphrodite that spins a mucus cocoon at night.
Where does the Batavian parrotfish live?
The Batavian parrotfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; reef flats, lagoons and seaward reefs.
How big does the Batavian parrotfish get?
The Batavian parrotfish grows to a maximum of about 43 cm.
Is the Batavian parrotfish dangerous to humans?
The flesh of the Batavian parrotfish is poisonous, so don't eat it. It has no venomous spines. By scraping algae off the reef, parrotfishes can take in ciguatera, an algal toxin that builds up in the flesh and is not destroyed by cooking. In tropical risk areas, avoid eating large specimens. If you get tingling, vomiting or diarrhoea after eating it, see a doctor.
Is the Batavian parrotfish edible?
Yes, the Batavian parrotfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scarus
More from the family Scaridae
Want the complete picture on the Batavian parrotfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Batavian parrotfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone