What is knobsnout parrotfish?

Knobsnout parrotfish (Cetoscarus ocellatus) is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Scaridae. They are found in the tropical waters of the western Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.

Knobsnout parrotfish are easily distinguishable by their unique appearance. They have a brightly colored body that varies from green, blue, and purple. The scales are large and noticeable, making them appear rough and scaly. They also have a distinctive hatchet-shaped snout that protrudes from their head, which they use to scrape algae and other organic matter from rocky surfaces.

These parrotfish are herbivores, and their diet primarily consists of algae, seaweed, and other plant material. They can grow up to 18 inches in length and weigh up to 7 pounds. Knobsnout parrotfish are known for their ability to change their sex as they mature, starting as females and later becoming males.

Knobsnout parrotfish are an important commercial and recreational fishery species, but their populations have declined in many areas due to overfishing and habitat destruction. Conservation efforts are currently underway to help protect and preserve their populations.