Bicolor Parrotfish

(Cetoscarus bicolor)

Cetoscarus Parrotfish should only be added to very large aquariums with sufficient algae growth on the live rock. Ample cracks, crevices and caves should also be provided for hiding and grazing. Parrotfish will bite the live rock with the algae, consume the algae, and grind the rock with their plate like teeth in the back of their throat which produces sand. The sand is then deposited on the bottom of the ocean. Parrotfish need sufficient room for swimming and grazing on algae. House with other peaceful tank mates. Ensure a constant supply of algae based foods are available, supplementing with prepared algae based foods with Spirulina. Most Parrotfish will exhibit color differences between juveniles, females and males.

Bicolor Parrotfish are also sometimes known as the Puffer Shark. Occasionally seen in the aquarium trade. Juvenile, female and male Bicolor Parrotfish may have different coloration. Generally juveniles are an overall white color with an orange wide band on its head and a black spot on its dorsal fin. As the fish begins to mature they will take on an overall green with tan to orange spots. Bicolor Parrotfish can grow to almost 36".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 500 gallons or larger for this species.

Water conditions: Salinity 1.020 - 1.025, Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Alkalinity 8 - 12 dKH

  • Care: CareDifficultDifficult CareModerateModerate
  • Behavior: BehaviorSocialSocial
  • Diet: DietHerbivoreHerbivore DietLive FoodLive Food DietFrozen FoodFrozen Food
  • Habitat: HabitatPlantedPlanted HabitatReefReef
  • Light: LightMediumMedium