Roundhead Parrotfish

Chlorurus strongylocephalus

The Roundhead Parrotfish is a reef-associated species found in the Indian Ocean, from the Gulf of Aden and Socotra down to Mozambique and across to western Indonesia. It inhabits lagoon and seaward reefs, typically at depths ranging from 2 to 35 meters, although it can be found up to 40 meters deep. This parrotfish is part of a species complex that includes Chlorurus gibbus in the Red Sea and Chlorurus microrhinos in the west-central Pacific. This species can grow up to 70 cm in length, with males generally larger than females. Juveniles are usually solitary, while adults may form schools. The Roundhead Parrotfish feeds primarily on algae, playing a crucial role in maintaining the health of coral reefs by controlling algal growth. During breeding, they exhibit distinct pairing behavior and are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. Divers encountering the Roundhead Parrotfish can expect to see them grazing on algae along the reef edges. They are harmless to humans and are sometimes targeted in commercial fisheries. The species is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.