A few mostly larger species such as the green humphead parrotfish ( Bolbometopon muricatum) feed extensively on living coral ( polyps). A wide range of other small organisms are sometimes eaten, including invertebrates ( sessile and benthic species, as well as zooplankton), bacteria and detritus. Most parrotfish species are herbivores, feeding mainly on epilithic algae. Feeding The strong beak of Bolbometopon muricatum is able to grind the sturdiest corals. The skin itself is covered in another mucous substance which may have antioxidant properties helpful in repairing bodily damage, or repelling parasites, in addition to providing protection from UV light. This mucus envelope may also act as an early warning system, allowing the parrotfish to flee when it detects predators such as moray eels disturbing the membrane. Prior to going to sleep, some species extrude mucus from their mouths, forming a protective cocoon that envelops the fish, presumably hiding its scent from potential predators. Some parrotfish species, including the queen parrotfish ( Scarus vetula), secrete a mucus cocoon, particularly at night. Mucus Scarus zelindae in its mucus cocoon The smallest species is the bluelip parrotfish ( Cryptotomus roseus), which has a maximum size of 13 cm (5.1 in). However, a few species reach lengths in excess of 1 m (3 ft 3 in), and the green humphead parrotfish can reach up to 1.3 m (4 ft 3 in). Maximum sizes vary within the group, with the majority of species reaching 30–50 cm (12–20 in) in length. Their numerous teeth are arranged in a tightly packed mosaic on the external surface of their jaw bones, forming a parrot-like beak with which they rasp algae from coral and other rocky substrates (which contributes to the process of bioerosion). Parrotfish are named for their dentition, which is distinct from other fish, including other labrids. They are found in coral reefs, rocky coasts, and seagrass beds, and can play a significant role in bioerosion. ![]() With roughly 95 species, this group's largest species richness is in the Indo-Pacific. Parrotfishes are a group of fish species traditionally regarded as a family (Scaridae), but now often treated as a subfamily (Scarinae) or tribe (Scarini) of the wrasses (Labridae).
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