Latin name

Scarus quoyi

Other names

Quoy's, quoy's parrotfish.

Identification

This species is characterized by the following features: 6 median prebronchial scales; 3 rows of cheek scales 1(5), 2(5-6), 3(2); lips largely covering dental plates; caudal fin truncate to slightly rounded. 

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9. 

Fish colouring

Overall coloration is green to purplish or bluish, sometimes with a pink spot on the chest, often with a lime green saddle at the base of the upper caudal fin, dark green "antennae" and a pale green spot on the cheek.

Distribution

Indo-West Pacific: from India to Vanuatu, north to the Ryukyu Islands, south to New Caledonia; Palau (Belau) in Micronesia. 

Habitat

Marine tropical species. Depth from 2 to 18 meters. Inhabits coral reefs.

Size

This species can reach up to 40 cm in length.

Behavior

Occurs in coral-rich areas of outer straits and coastal reefs. Occurs singly or in small groups on mudflats to feed on algae during high tide.

Food and feeding habits

Its usual diet consists of algae and coral polyps. 

Reproduction

Egg-laying, clearly mating during reproduction.

Fishing

Of no commercial interest to fishermen.

Relationship with a person

Used in aquariums. In some countries they are eaten as food.