Star-eye Parrotfish
Calotomus carolinus
Star-eye Parrotfish (Calotomus carolinus) is a reef-associated parrotfish of the Indo-Pacific that grazes algae on coral and rocky substrates. It is more often seen than targeted; local regulations may restrict harvest in some areas.
_(Ifremer_00763-87533).jpg){kind=link}
Identification points
- Rounded, parrot-like fused teeth forming a beak
- Large eye with a pale ring that gives the star-eye look
- Deep-bodied reef fish with smooth, continuous dorsal profile
Habitat
Shallow coral reefs, reef flats, lagoon edges, and rocky reef slopes with abundant algae, usually in clear tropical marine water.
Bait notes
Not a common sport target. Small pieces of squid, shrimp, crab, or algae-based baits may take it; tiny reef jigs or light soft plastics can work when fish are feeding actively.
Behavior
A daytime grazer that scrapes benthic algae and detritus from hard substrate. It is generally wary, often stays close to reef structure, and may feed in small groups or as solitary fish.
Caution
Check local rules before keeping one; parrotfishes are often managed or protected on reefs. Like many reef fish, they may pose ciguatera risk in some tropical areas.
Fishing notes
Use very light tackle and small hooks; present baits close to reef faces or tide-washed algae zones. Stealth matters in clear water, and short casts with minimal splash are usually best.