Dusky parrotfish
📖 Overview
Inhabits coral-rich areas of clear lagoons, channels, and outer reef slopes . Generally solitary . Juveniles in small groups on algae and coral reefs inshore . Feeds on benthic algae . Males maintain small harems and pair spawn .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9. This species is distinguished by the following characters: median predorsal scales 6-8 (usually 7); 3 scale rows on cheek, 1(6-7), 2(6-9), 3(2-5); pectoral-fin rays 13-15 (usually 14); conical teeth on side, none in female, usually 2 on upper dental plate for terminal male; lips mainly covering dental plates; caudal fin rounded in small female, with prolonged lobes in large adult. Colour of male reddish brown anteriorly with red upper lip and dark bands around the mouth, greenish posteriorly with dark scale margins, the markings in the head variable but always with a dark-edged yellowish or bright green dot or spot at top end of line from mouth through eye to top of opercular opening.; female red on head, belly and fins, side with wavy black and white stripes, and dark green bands around mouth and eye .: fusiform / normal; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Dusky parrotfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Dusky parrotfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 0 - 30 m . Tropical; 30°N - 27°S south to Sodwana Bay, South Africa (Ref.
🌿 Ecology
benthic algae (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Dusky 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) | 87 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Dusky 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 limbatus | Valenciennes | 1840 | Synonym |
| Callyodon lineolabiatus | Fowler & Bean | 1928 | Synonym |
| Callyodon madagascariensis | Steindachner | 1887 | Synonym |
| Callyodon maoricus | Jordan & Seale | 1906 | Synonym |
| Callyodon niger | Forsskål | 1775 | Synonym |
| Callyodon nuchipunctatus | Valenciennes | 1840 | Synonym |
| Pseudoscarus flavomarginatus | Kner | 1865 | Synonym |
| Pseudoscarus godeffroyi | Günther | 1909 | Synonym |
| Pseudoscarus madagascariensis | Steindachner | 1887 | Synonym |
| Pseudoscarus niger | Forsskål | 1775 | Homotypic |
| Pseudoscarus niger viridis | Klunzinger | 1871 | Synonym |
| Scarus chadri | Lacepède | 1802 | Heterotypic |
| Scarus limbatus | Valenciennes | 1840 | Synonym |
| Scarus lineolabiatus | Fowler & Bean | 1928 | Synonym |
| Scarus makaravar | Montrouzier | 1857 | Heterotypic |
| Scarus nigar | Forsskål | 1775 | Synonym |
| Scarus nuchipunctatus | Valenciennes | 1840 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) — 7 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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