Daisy parrotfish
📖 Overview
One of the most widespread parrotfishes, but highly variable and some geographical forms that are probably subspecific . Inhabit both coral rich and open pavement areas of shallow reef flats and lagoon and seaward reefs , as well as drop-offs, behaving differently in various areas . Benthopelagic . Juveniles found in coral rubble areas of reef flats and lagoons . Juveniles and individuals in the initial phase form large groups that migrate great distances between feeding and sleeping grounds . Feed on benthic algae . Minimum depth range reported taken from Ref. 30874. Protogynous . Minimum depth from Ref. 58018.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9. Initial phase very variable in coloration. Small individuals may be uniformly dark brown to light gray with or without the dark-centered light area on the caudal peduncle; large individuals may have a series of irregular rows of small light spots posteriorly or have the dark-centered light area on the caudal peduncle. The terminal phase is also variable with or without a large tan area on the side or on the caudal peduncle. Rounded snout .: fusiform / normal; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Daisy parrotfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding . Size at sex change: 35.1 - 47.2 cm TL .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; brackish; reef-associated; oceanodromous ; depth range 0 - 50 m . Tropical; 30°N - 33°S, 30°E - 130°W Indian Ocean.
🌿 Ecology
benthic algae (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Daisy 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 | 19.1 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 112 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Daisy parrotfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Daisy parrotfish.
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 27 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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