How to Identify Redtail Parrotfish

To identify Redtail Parrotfish (Sparisoma rubripinne), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Highly variable depending on sex, age, and phase. Initial Phase (IP) individuals (juveniles and females): Generally mottled reddish-brown to greenish-brown, often with a pale belly and sometimes with faint bars or spots. The caudal fin is typically reddish or yellowish, giving rise to the common name. Terminal Phase (TP) individuals (males): More brightly colored, often with a greenish-blue body, a reddish or orange caudal fin, and sometimes blue or green markings on the head and fins. A distinctive red spot or patch may be present at the base of the pectoral fin. The scales often have dark edges, creating a reticulated pattern.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Strong, fused teeth forming a parrot-like beak for scraping algae., Large, cycloid scales., Continuous dorsal fin., Sexual dichromatism and ontogenetic color changes., Often a red or orange caudal fin, especially in initial phase individuals.

Dorsal fin

Single, continuous dorsal fin with IX spines and 10 soft rays.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate in initial phase, becoming more truncate or slightly rounded in terminal phase males. Often reddish or yellowish.

Pectoral fin

Relatively large and fan-like, with 13-14 rays. Often with a distinctive red or orange spot at the base in terminal phase males.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, with one spine and five soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Caudal Fin Coloration

   Look for a reddish or yellowish caudal fin, especially in initial phase individuals. This is a key feature for the common name.

2. 2

   Pectoral Fin Spot

   Terminal phase males often exhibit a distinct red or orange spot at the base of the pectoral fin, which can help differentiate them from other Sparisoma species.

3. 3

   Body Coloration

   Initial phase individuals are generally mottled brown/red, while terminal phase males are typically greenish-blue with reddish fins. Observe the overall color pattern in conjunction with fin coloration.

4. 4

   Dental Plate

   Like all parrotfish, they possess fused teeth forming a beak-like structure. While not easily visible in the field, it's a defining characteristic of the family.

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