Steephead Parrotfish

Chlorurus microrhinos

Steephead Parrotfish (Chlorurus microrhinos) is a large Indo-Pacific reef parrotfish known for its steep forehead in terminal males and strong beak-like teeth. It grazes hard on reef surfaces and rubble, helping create sand from coral and algae.

Saltwater

Steephead Parrotfish reference image — Rickard Zerpe, cc-by, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Large, steeply sloped forehead in terminal males
Beak-like fused teeth with thick lips
Blue-green body with pink/orange markings and a large, robust profile

Habitat

Coral reefs, outer reef slopes, lagoon patch reefs, and reef crests across the Indo-Pacific; adults often patrol exposed reef flats and surge zones where algal turf and coral substrata are abundant.

Bait notes

Not a common target species; if taken, it will sometimes take cut natural baits like shrimp, pieces of squid, or shellfish near reef structure. Small reef jigs or soft plastics worked close to the bottom may get exploratory bites, but it is primarily an incidental catch.

Behavior

A daytime herbivore/detritivore that scrapes algae and living reef substrate with fused teeth, often in small groups or as solitary large fish. Large males are territorial and may switch from drab initial-phase coloration to vivid green-blue terminal phase.

Caution

Reef-associated fish can pose ciguatera risk in some tropical areas, especially larger individuals; local advisories matter. Use caution around sharp coral and strong reef currents.

Fishing notes

Fish around reef edges, bommies, and drop-offs with light to medium reef tackle and abrasion-resistant leader. Present bait naturally and keep clear of coral to avoid snagging; release carefully because large parrotfish are important reef grazers.