Harlequin Parrotfish [Leptoscarus vaigiensis]
Description
The Harlequin Parrotfish is a species of parrotfish that primarily inhabits coral reefs in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They are generally found in shallow water, down to a depth of about 30 meters. A distinguishing feature of this species is its coloration; juveniles are pale with dark spots, while adults have a more vibrant pattern with a greenish body and a pinkish tail. They are herbivores, feeding mainly on algae, and are known for their ability to change sex from female to male.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Fish
Actinopterygii
|
| Order |
Perciformes
Perciformes
|
| Family |
Parrotfishes
Scaridae
|
| Genus |
Leptoscarus
Leptoscarus
|