Darkcap parrotfish
📖 Overview
Inhabits lagoon and seaward reefs to at least 10 m . Also found in lagoons and coastal and outer reefs to 20 m deep . Feeds on benthic algae . Occurs singly . May also form groups . Minimum depth reported taken from Ref. 128797.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9. Males recognized by the dark area over head and body, and females yellow barring . Closely resembles S. dimidiatus, but S. oviceps differs in that its initial phase has fewer, less vertical diagonal black bars on the back and the terminal phase lacks the light-centered bar between the eye and the pectoral fin base, is darker and less brilliant blue on the upper head and back and is usually larger.: elongated; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Darkcap parrotfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Darkcap parrotfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 0 - 20 m . Tropical; 32°N - 27°S, 57°E - 141°W north to the Ryukyu Islands, south to Shark Bay and the Great Barrier Reef.
🌿 Ecology
benthic algae (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Scarus Oviceps 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 | 18.1 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 55 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Darkcap 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 lazulinus | Jordan & Seale | 1906 | Synonym |
| Pseudoscarus knerii | Steindachner | 1887 | Synonym |
| Pseudoscarus zonatus | Macleay | 1883 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 5 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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