- Check the sub-map for the specimen information files -
PARROTFISH - SCARIDAE
Parrotfish are probably the most common fish family on a reef. These tireless fish are very active during the day. They feed on algae which they scrape off rocks and dead corals, but also living corals get bitten off with their strong beaks. Some swim alone, whilst others swim in large groups consisting of females and primary males. Parrotfish sleep in holes or underneath overhangs. This makes them easy prey for night hunters. This is why most small parrotfish make a kind of slimy sleeping bag around their body to protect them from night-feeders. This slime layer is produced by glands which are positioned right behind the gill plate. If this slime layer gets touched, they immediately wake up and swim away. When parrotfish feed, they grind corals with their strong teeth, taking out what they need. The rests is deposited as coral sand. This makes them the biggest producers of coral sand.
- Check the sub-map for the specimen information files -
