How to Identify Blue-barred Parrotfish

To identify Blue-barred Parrotfish (Scarus ghobban), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Highly variable. Initial phase (IP) individuals (females and some males) are generally yellowish to greenish-brown with 3-5 prominent blue bars on the body, often with a yellowish head and fins. Terminal phase (TP) males are typically more vibrant, with a greenish-blue body, often with a yellow or orange patch on the operculum and a blue-green head. The blue bars may be less distinct or absent in large TP males. Caudal fin often has blue margins.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Robust, somewhat compressed body., Fused teeth forming a parrot-like beak., Large, cycloid scales., Prominent blue bars on the body, especially in initial phase., Terminal phase males often display a more uniform blue-green coloration with yellow/orange markings on the head.

Dorsal fin

IX, 10 (9 spines, 10 soft rays)

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate in initial phase, often with elongated lobes in large terminal phase males.

Pectoral fin

14-16 rays

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, with one spine and five soft rays. Anal fin has III spines and 9 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Coloration (Initial Phase)

   Look for a yellowish to greenish-brown body with 3-5 distinct vertical blue bars. The head is often yellowish.

2. 2

   Body Coloration (Terminal Phase)

   Observe for a more uniform blue-green body, often with a yellow or orange patch on the operculum and a blue-green head. The blue bars may be faded or absent.

3. 3

   Beak-like Mouth

   All parrotfish possess fused teeth forming a distinctive beak, which is a key family characteristic.

4. 4

   Size

   This is one of the larger parrotfish species, reaching considerable lengths, which can help distinguish it from smaller species.

5. 5

   Caudal Fin

   In large terminal phase males, the caudal fin often develops elongated lobes, giving it a more lunate appearance.

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