Rainbow Parrotfish (Scarus guacamaia)

Fish in the family Scaridae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.

Quick facts

Scientific nameScarus guacamaia

FamilyScaridae

Also known asLoro Guacamayo

Care levelExpert

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietherbivore

Adult size49 in

Minimum tank size500 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-82°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025

Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Large, robust parrotfish with distinctive beak-like fused teeth. Coloration varies by life stage: juveniles are greenish to yellowish, while adults display brilliant blues, greens, and reds, particularly males which develop intensely colored heads and bodies with orange-red markings.

Diet and feeding

Obligate herbivore that feeds on algae and detritus by scraping coral rubble and reef surfaces. In captivity, provide high-quality marine algae sheets, seaweed-based pellets, and occasional vegetable matter such as blanched spinach or nori.

Difficulty and care for the Rainbow Parrotfish

Expert

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disease, Bacterial Infections, Parasitic Infestations

Origin and habitat

Western Atlantic from Florida to Brazil, including the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico.

Log Rainbow Parrotfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Rainbow Parrotfish alongside everything else in your reef.

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