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The Mediterranean parrotfish (Lat. Sparisoma cretense). It is found at depths up to 50 m along rocky shores in the Mediterranean and the eastern Atlantic. Adults reach a maximum length of about 52 cm, but most are 15–30 cm (6–12 in) long. The adult females are red with a yellow-edged greyish saddle shape on the back and a yellow spot at the base of the tail. The males are overall greyish with paler underparts and no distinctive markings, although typically with blackish bars on the throat and opercular. If stressed, they adopt a pattern with broad horizontal white stripes. It feeds primarily on epilithic and coralline algae, but may also take epiphytic algae (growing on seagrass) and small invertebrates. As its relatives, this parrotfish starts as female and then changes to male.
Local name
Riba papagaj
English name
Mediterranean parrotfish
Scientific name
Sparisoma cretense)
Did you know?
Perhaps the most fascinating parrotfish behavior relates to its homemade nightgown. Some species of parrotfish are able to encapsulate themselves in a cocoon of mucus at night. Scientists believe that this bubble might protect the fish from predators — such as eels and sharks — by masking its scent
Weight
-
Length
Up to 0.52 m
Life span
7 years
Nutrition
It feeds primarily on epilithic and coralline algae, but may also take epiphytic algae (growing on seagrass) and small invertebrates
Type of diet
Herbivorous
IUCN vulnerability status
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
Distribution
It is found in the Mediterranean and the eastern Atlantic, from Portugal south to Senegal