Sixband Parrotfish
Scarus frenatus
The Sixband Parrotfish (Scarus frenatus) is a reef-dwelling herbivorous parrotfish of the Indo-Pacific. It grazes on algae and dead coral surfaces, helping shape reef flats and lagoon reefs; it is usually more valuable as a reef species than a target angling fish.
Identification points
- Multiple pale vertical bars, typically about six, across the reddish to greenish body
- Bulbous parrot-like fused teeth forming a strong beak
- Adult males show brighter colors, often blue-green with a pinkish or reddish head
Habitat
Shallow coral reefs, reef flats, and lagoon slopes in clear tropical saltwater, usually over hard coral and rubble with algal growth; common around exposed outer reefs and sheltered backreef areas.
Bait notes
Not a standard sport fish; if targeted for food, small pieces of shrimp, squid, clam, or reef fish flesh can take it, but it more commonly responds to tiny natural baits near algae-covered rock than to lures.
Behavior
Feeds by scraping and biting algae from reef surfaces, often in small groups or as solitary fish. Like other parrotfishes it is active by day and may retreat to reef structure at night; adults can change sex, typical of the family.
Caution
Reef-associated fish can carry ciguatera in some locations, and parrotfish are often subject to local reef-fishing restrictions or size limits. Handle carefully around the beak-like mouth and only eat if the harvest is legal and locally advised safe.
Fishing notes
Use very light tackle and small hooks fished close to reef edges, but avoid snagging live coral. It is generally caught incidentally by reef anglers rather than pursued intentionally; check local rules and no-take reef protections before keeping one.