Fin's Fish Guide
The Emerald Parrotfish (Nicholsina usta) is a saltwater fish of the family Scaridae that grows up to 30 cm.
Western Atlantic, in seagrass beds and open bottoms, mainly in shallow water; larger animals in deeper water.
Description
The emerald parrotfish is a parrotfish (family Scaridae) of the western Atlantic. The species reaches about 30 cm and has a fusiform, greenish body with brown and reddish tones and a beak-like dentition of fused teeth. It inhabits seagrass beds and open bottoms, mainly in shallow water; larger fish live in deeper water. With its beak it crops and scrapes seagrass and algae. Unlike many parrotfishes it is not commonly marketed. The species is of modest local value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Emerald Parrotfish?
The Emerald Parrotfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Parrotfish with a beak-like dentition with which it clips off seagrass and algae.
Where does the Emerald Parrotfish live?
The Emerald Parrotfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic, in seagrass beds and open bottoms, mainly in shallow water; larger animals in deeper water.
How big does the Emerald Parrotfish get?
The Emerald Parrotfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Emerald Parrotfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Emerald Parrotfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Emerald Parrotfish edible?
The Emerald Parrotfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nicholsina
More from the family Scaridae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Emerald Parrotfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.