Dotted Parrotfish

Calotomus viridescens

The Dotted Parrotfish is a reef-associated species found in the tropical waters of the Western Indian Ocean, specifically from the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba to the coast of Ethiopia. Divers can spot this fish at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. It is distinguished by its gray-brown body with darker scale edges and paler ventral side. The fish features numerous dark spots on its scales, particularly around the operculum and near the pectoral fin. Juveniles have rounded caudal fins, which become double emarginate as they mature. This species is typically encountered either alone or in small groups, inhabiting coral and rocky reefs as well as seagrass beds. The Dotted Parrotfish primarily feeds on marine angiosperms and epiphytic algae. It is harmless to humans and is sometimes caught using traps and nets for minor commercial fisheries and the aquarium trade. The Dotted Parrotfish is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Divers encountering this fish can expect a harmless and peaceful interaction, as it goes about its grazing activities in its natural habitat.