Fin's Fish Guide
The Grey chub (Scarus iseri) is a saltwater fish of the family Scaridae that grows up to 35 cm.
Coral reefs and seagrass beds of the western Atlantic and the Caribbean.
Description
The striped parrotfish (Scarus iseri) is a small parrotfish of the family Scaridae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species has a beak-like mouth of fused teeth with which it scrapes algae from the reef and seagrass. The colour varies strongly with life stage: juveniles and females are brown with white stripes, while terminal-phase males are blue-green with orange hues. It reaches about 35 cm and lives in schools over Thalassia beds and reef areas. The species is a protogynous hermaphrodite, in which fish first function as females and later turn into colourful males.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Grey chub?
The Grey chub has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Strong colour change with life stage; protogynous hermaphrodite that scrapes algae from the reef. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Grey chub live?
The Grey chub lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Coral reefs and seagrass beds of the western Atlantic and the Caribbean.
How big does the Grey chub get?
The Grey chub grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Grey chub dangerous to humans?
The Grey chub is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fish is harmless to handle. There are reports of ciguatera poisoning after eating it; in case of tingling, nausea, vomiting or reversed hot-cold sensation, seek medical help.
Is the Grey chub edible?
The Grey chub is rarely 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
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Grey chub is one of 12,519 species in the app.