Stoplight Parrotfish (Sparisoma viride)
Fish in the family Scaridae. Hard care. Not Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
Terminal-phase males display distinctive bright red coloration on the head and front body with yellow-green rear body and tail; initial-phase fish and females are drab greenish-brown. All phases have the characteristic heavy parrotfish beak and moderately robust body.
Diet and feeding
Stoplight parrotfish are primarily herbivorous, feeding on macroalgae, turf algae, and detritus in the wild. In captivity, provide high-quality marine herbivore pellets, nori, and frozen spirulina-based foods daily, with occasional meaty supplements.
Difficulty and care for the Stoplight Parrotfish
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, White Spot Disease, Hole-in-the-Head
Origin and habitat
Western Atlantic, from Bermuda and Florida through the Caribbean to Brazil.
Log Stoplight 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 Stoplight Parrotfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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