Gibbus Parrotfish

(Scarus gibbus)

Scarus 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.

Gibbus Parrotfish are also sometimes known as the Heavybeak, Gibbus or Red Sea Steephead Parrotfish. Uncommonly seen in the aquarium trade. Gibbus Parrotfish can range in color depending on their age. Generally juveniles are black and white striped while adults are generally blue with males having a green and purple hue while females have a yellow hue. Gibbus Parrotfish can grow to almost 28".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 250 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: CareModerateModerate
  • Behavior: BehaviorSocialSocial
  • Diet: DietFrozen FoodFrozen Food DietHerbivoreHerbivore DietLive FoodLive Food
  • Habitat: HabitatPlantedPlanted HabitatReefReef
  • Light: LightMediumMedium