Redtail Parrotfish and Similar Species
Sparisoma chrysopterum
Got a photo? Identify fish instantly with the Fishby app.
Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Redtail Parrotfish. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Stoplight Parrotfish
Sparisoma viride
Key differences: Terminal phase males of S. viride have a prominent yellow spot at the base of the pectoral fin and a bright yellow caudal fin, contrasting with the orange-red caudal fin of S. chrysopterum. Initial phase S. viride often have a distinct red belly.
Princess Parrotfish
Scarus taeniopterus
Key differences: While also a parrotfish, Scarus species generally have more prominent, often pointed, teeth on their 'beak' compared to the more fused, plate-like teeth of Sparisoma. Terminal phase S. taeniopterus males are blue-green with distinct blue stripes on the head and body, and lack the prominent orange-red tail of S. chrysopterum.
Redband Parrotfish
Sparisoma aurofrenatum
Key differences: Terminal phase S. aurofrenatum males have a distinct red band across the snout and a more uniformly green body, lacking the prominent orange-red caudal fin of S. chrysopterum. Initial phase S. aurofrenatum often have a dark spot at the base of the caudal fin.
Explore Redtail Parrotfish
Identify fish anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full species details, and more.