Fin's Fish Guide
The Azure parrotfish (Scarus compressus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scaridae that grows up to 68 cm.
Description
The azure parrotfish is a parrotfish (Scaridae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has a robust body and a parrot-like beak, formed by fused tooth plates, with which it scrapes algae and growth from rocks and coral. Adults live on rocky, boulder-strewn reefs and slopes, often with stony coral. It is protogynous: females can change into males, changing colour markedly in the process. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Azure parrotfish?
The Azure parrotfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Parrot beak of fused tooth plates for scraping algae; protogynous with a colour change.
Where does the Azure parrotfish live?
The Azure parrotfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; rocky reefs and slopes.
How big does the Azure parrotfish get?
The Azure parrotfish grows to a maximum of about 68 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Azure parrotfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Azure parrotfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Azure parrotfish edible?
Yes, the Azure parrotfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scarus
More from the family Scaridae
Want the complete picture on the Azure parrotfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Azure parrotfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.