Common Parrotfish

The Common Parrotfish (Scarus psittacus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its brilliant coloration, unique beak-like mouth used for grazing algae, and ability to change colors and even sex as it matures.

Males typically display striking shades of blue, green, and purple with bold markings that intensify as they mature, while females/juveniles are usually more subdued, showing mottled brown, red, and pale hues before transitioning into brighter adult colors.

They reach about 12–16 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 180 gallons due to their active swimming needs and grazing behavior. Provide a sandbed, plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding, and open swimming space, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4). A secure lid is strongly recommended since parrotfish are prone to jumping.

Diet should consist of algae-based foods (macroalgae, seaweed sheets), spirulina, high-quality pellets, and supplemental offerings of mysis shrimp, brine, and copepods. With proper care, this fish makes a standout, active, and colorful addition to a large marine aquarium, though it may nip at corals and disturb reef structures.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.