Scarus frenatus is a species of parrotfish.[3] Common names include bridled parrotfish, sixband or six-banded parrotfish or vermiculate parrotfish.[1]
Description
This species grows to a maximum length of 47 cm,[2] and can be distinguished by its patterns and colouration. Its appearance changes during its life phases. During the initial phase, it has a reddish to brown colour, six to seven dark, horizontal stripes along its body, and red fins.[4] In males, during the terminal phase, the posterior of the body and the lower half of the head appear abruptly lighter. Also, in males, the caudal fins appear blue-green with a large, orange, crescent-shaped area.[4]
Normally, the bridled parrotfish occurs at depths of 1–25 m[2] on exposed outer reefs, occasionally in extremely shallow water. Juvenile specimens may be found in lagoons living within the rubble and coral of the reefs.[2] This species is generally a solitary fish. While feeding, it may join schools of mixed species.[2] It grazes on algae growing in the benthic zone.[2]
Parrotfish (Scarus frenatus) are reef fish commonly found in the Kuroshio Current reef systems.
