Japanese parrotfish
📖 Overview
Japanese parrotfish (Calotomus japonicus) is a ray-finned fish of the family Labridae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in reef-associated environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 39 cm. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food, valued as a sport fish.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9 - 10; Vertebrae: 25. Flexible to semi-pungent dorsal spines; a dark central blotch on inter spinous membrane of dorsal spines I and II. Area circumscribed by pectoral fin unspotted. Rounded caudal fins at all sizes. Reddish brown in color when fresh with white and pale gray scale markings. Reddish pelvic fins with whitish blotches. Number of upper jaw teeth initially increasing with size. Yellow iris, blotched with dark brown. Lateral line interrupted.: short and / or deep; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Japanese parrotfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Japanese parrotfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Pelagic spawner.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated. Subtropical; 40°N - 30°N Northwest Pacific: southern Japan, and at least as far as Tokyo, and the adjacent Asian mainland.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Japanese parrotfish is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.7 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 98 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Japanese parrotfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Callyodon japonicus | Valenciennes | 1840 | Synonym |
| Calotomus cyclurus | Jenkins | 1903 | Synonym |
| Leptoscarus japonicus | Valenciennes | 1840 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 1 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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