The Rivulated parrotfish (Scarus rivulatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scaridae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The rivulated parrotfish is a parrotfish from the western Pacific, from Thailand to New Caledonia, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to Australia. The species grows to about 40 cm. Females are grey-brown, large males green with orange and blue markings and a beak-like fused dentition with which it scrapes algae and coral from the reef. It lives on silty coastal and outer reefs. Like other parrotfishes it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rivulated parrotfish?
The Rivulated parrotfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Beak-shaped dentition for scraping algae; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Rivulated parrotfish live?
The Rivulated parrotfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific
How big does the Rivulated parrotfish get?
The Rivulated parrotfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Rivulated parrotfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Rivulated parrotfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Rivulated parrotfish edible?
Yes, the Rivulated parrotfish is commonly eaten.
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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 Rivulated parrotfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rivulated parrotfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.