Gibbus Parrotfish

The Gibbus Parrotfish (Scarus gibbus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its brilliant coloration, striking beak-like mouthparts, unique feeding behavior, and vibrant patterns.

Males typically develop brighter, more elaborate coloration with bold blues, greens, and purples, especially during terminal phases, while females and juveniles usually exhibit more subdued tones of red, brown, or green.

They reach about 20–24 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 300 gallons due to their size and high activity level. Provide ample live rock for grazing, open swimming space, and a fine sandbed, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4). A secure lid is essential since parrotfish are known to be powerful swimmers and may jump.

Diet should consist of a mix of natural algae (macroalgae and film algae), enriched herbivore pellets, spirulina, seaweed sheets, and supplemental foods such as mysis or brine shrimp for variety. With proper care, this fish makes a spectacular but challenging addition to large, advanced marine aquariums.

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.