| Family: |
Scaridae (Parrotfishes), subfamily: Sparisomatinae |
| Max. size: |
21 cm SL (male/unsexed) |
| Environment: |
reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 30 m |
| Distribution: |
Western Indian Ocean: known only from the Red Sea, ranging from the Gulf of Aqaba to at least the coast of Ethiopia. |
| Diagnosis: |
Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10-10; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 9-9; Vertebrae: 25-25. Head and body gray-brown with darker scale edges, paler ventrally. Numerous dark spots on scales on operculum and region circumscribed by pectoral fin. Flexible dorsal spines; caudal fin rounded in juveniles, double emarginate in adults; pectoral fin base yellowish, the rest unpigmented; pale pelvic fins with 2 reddish bars, at the center and near the base. Skin dark, almost black around anus. Orangish iris. |
| Biology: |
Inhabits coral and rocky reefs and grass bed areas to depths of about 30 m (Ref. 9710). Occurs singly or in small groups (Ref. 9710). Feeds mainly on marine angiosperms and epiphytic algae. Caught mainly with traps, nets and other types of artisanal gear. |
| IUCN Red List Status: |
Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 17 September 2009 Ref. (130435)
|
| Threat to humans: |
harmless |
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