Bluepatch Parrotfish

Scarus forsteni

The Bluepatch Parrotfish, known scientifically as Scarus forsteni, is a marine fish found in the tropical waters of the western Pacific Ocean. It inhabits coral reefs, often seen on exposed outer lagoon and seaward reefs rich in coral habitats. Divers can encounter this species at depths ranging from 3 to 30 meters, where it feeds on benthic algae using its beak-like mouth to scrape surfaces. This feeding behavior is facilitated by its unique jaw structure, characterized by a shallow shape and thin cement covering. Male Bluepatch Parrotfish are identifiable by their green coloration with pink scale edges, a green band around the mouth extending below the eye, and a violet zone on the upper head. Females, on the other hand, are generally pale grey with a broad yellowish-brown zone on the side, a small pale dot above a diffuse blue-green patch on the mid-side, and a dark band from the eye to the pectoral region. The species can grow up to 55 cm in length and weigh as much as 2.5 kg. This species is oviparous, with distinct pairing during breeding. It is generally solitary and harmless to humans. The Bluepatch Parrotfish is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.