Pacific Bullethead Parrotfish

Chlorurus spilurus

Not Evaluated

Typical Size

33cm

Found at

185 sites

Family

Labridae

Imagine gliding along a vibrant coral reef when you spot a flash of turquoise and emerald – you've likely encountered the Pacific Bullethead Parrotfish (Chlorurus spilurus)! These charismatic reef inhabitants, typically around 33cm but growing up to 48cm, are a delightful sight for divers and snorkellers. While their exact depth range remains a mystery, they are most commonly spotted in the warm waters of Hawaii, Southeast Asia, the Great Barrier Reef, and the South Pacific. Their vibrant colours and distinctive head shape make them a memorable addition to any dive. Keep your eyes peeled for them grazing amongst the coral, adding a splash of colour to the underwater landscape. They are reef-associated and their diet information is currently unavailable.

How to Identify

The Pacific Bullethead Parrotfish is recognizable by its robust, bullet-shaped head and vibrant colouration. Mature males often display brilliant turquoise and green hues across their body, while females tend to be duller in colour. A key identifier is the presence of distinct markings around the mouth and eyes, often a contrasting colour to the body. Their beak-like mouth, typical of parrotfish, is used for scraping algae from coral. While underwater, observe their swimming style; parrotfish often use their pectoral fins for propulsion, giving them a unique and graceful movement.