Calotomus viridescens (Rüppell, 1835)
Viridescent parrotfish
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Scaridae (Parrotfishes), subfamily: Sparisomatinae
Max. size:  21 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 30 m
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: known only from the Red Sea, ranging from the Gulf of Aqaba to at least the coast of Ethiopia.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10-10; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 9-9; Vertebrae: 25-25. Head and body gray-brown with darker scale edges, paler ventrally. Numerous dark spots on scales on operculum and region circumscribed by pectoral fin. Flexible dorsal spines; caudal fin rounded in juveniles, double emarginate in adults; pectoral fin base yellowish, the rest unpigmented; pale pelvic fins with 2 reddish bars, at the center and near the base. Skin dark, almost black around anus. Orangish iris.
Biology:  Inhabits coral and rocky reefs and grass bed areas to depths of about 30 m (Ref. 9710). Occurs singly or in small groups (Ref. 9710). Feeds mainly on marine angiosperms and epiphytic algae. Caught mainly with traps, nets and other types of artisanal gear.
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 17 September 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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