| Family: |
Scaridae (Parrotfishes), subfamily: Scarinae |
| Max. size: |
37 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 900.0 g |
| Environment: |
reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 20 m |
| Distribution: |
Western Indian Ocean: East Africa south to Natal, South Africa; also around islands of the western Indian Ocean. |
| Diagnosis: |
Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10-10; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 9-9 |
| Biology: |
Inhabits shallow lagoon reefs, in areas with dense coral cover (Ref. 9710). Individuals in the initial phase form groups (Ref. 9710). Feeds on algae by incessant grazing in coral reefs (Ref. 5503). Marked sexual dimorphism. |
| IUCN Red List Status: |
Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 19 September 2009 Ref. (130435)
|
| Threat to humans: |
harmless |
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