Azure Parrotfish

Scarus compressus

The Azure Parrotfish is a marine species found primarily in the Eastern Pacific, specifically in the Gulf of California and the Galapagos Islands. It inhabits rocky, boulder-strewn reefs and slopes, often in areas with reef-building stony corals. Divers can encounter this species at depths ranging from 3 to 24 meters. The Azure Parrotfish can grow up to 68 cm in length, although individuals are more commonly around 35 cm. This parrotfish feeds by scraping algae from rocks and corals, playing a crucial role in maintaining the health of coral reefs. It is an uncommon species and is only occasionally caught, making encounters with it a special experience for divers. During breeding, the Azure Parrotfish is oviparous and forms distinct pairs. The conservation status of the Azure Parrotfish is listed as Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List. Divers should be aware that while this species is harmless to humans, its rarity makes sightings a noteworthy event.