Fin's Fish Guide
The Redfin parrotfish (Sparisoma rubripinne) is a saltwater fish of the family Scaridae that grows up to 48 cm.
Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, near reefs, rocky bottoms and seagrass beds of shallow coastal water.
Description
The redfin parrotfish is a parrotfish of the family Scaridae reaching about 48 cm. Like other parrotfishes its jaw teeth are fused into a strong beak, with which the fish scrapes algae and seagrass off rocks and the bottom; in doing so it also grinds up limestone, excreted as sand. The colour differs strongly by life stage: young and female fish are brownish-grey, while large males turn green with reddish fins, from which the species takes its name. Like many parrotfishes it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The species lives near reefs, rocky bottoms and seagrass beds of shallow coastal water from the USA to Brazil. It is traded locally as a food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redfin parrotfish?
The Redfin parrotfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Parrotfish with the jaw teeth fused into a beak; changes colour strongly with life stage, from brown-grey (juvenile) to green with red fins (male). Caution: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Redfin parrotfish live?
The Redfin parrotfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, near reefs, rocky bottoms and seagrass beds of shallow coastal water.
How big does the Redfin parrotfish get?
The Redfin parrotfish grows to a maximum of about 48 cm.
Is the Redfin parrotfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Redfin parrotfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Redfin parrotfish edible?
Yes, the Redfin parrotfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sparisoma
More from the family Scaridae
Want the complete picture on the Redfin parrotfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redfin parrotfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.