Species Spotlight · 20 Sep 2023
The largest parrotfish species is the green bumphead parrotfish, often known as the humphead parrotfish. These fish can reach approximately 60 inches in length and weigh up to 165 pounds. They display a predominantly green-blue colouration and possess a distinctive, highly recognisable bulge (or hump) positioned between their eyes.
Adult blue parrotfish are entirely blue in colouration, making them easily identifiable. Juvenile specimens typically display a light blue hue. Males often show grey patterning, while females may vary in their shade of blue.
Rainbow parrotfish exhibit brown-orange colouring on their front half and green on their rear half, making them less colourful than their name might suggest. Male rainbow parrotfish can grow to an impressive 48 inches long and weigh approximately 45 pounds, ranking them among the larger parrotfish species.
Princess parrotfish are highly social creatures that feed in large groups, though they do so at unusual times. As a nocturnal feeding species, princess parrotfish are active at night and rest during daylight hours. Should you spot a group of parrotfish foraging on a night dive, they may well be a school of princess parrotfish.