More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 5000 litres / 1320.86 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 70.0cm / 27.56inches |
| Reef Compatible | Not reef safe |
| Temperament | Unknown |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The steephead parrotfish, scientifically known as Chlorurus strongylocephalus, belongs to the Scaridae family. These parrotfish species are efficient algae eaters known for their ability to consume rock corals as well. They tend to grow quite large, making them challenging to keep in most home aquariums due to their size.
Aquarium Suitability
Typically, the steephead parrotfish is not suitable for home aquariums due to its large size and demanding nature. These fish require a very spacious tank, with a minimum size of 5000 liters, to accommodate their swimming habits and heavy feeding requirements.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
Considered to have average hardiness, the steephead parrotfish is known for its voracious appetite, necessitating a well-filtered aquarium with an abundance of algae for grazing. They also have a unique habit of sleeping within a mucus cocoon formed between rocks.
Reef Suitability
The steephead parrotfish is not considered reef-safe due to its inclination to feed on coral. Hence, it is not recommended to be kept in a reef aquarium setting.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the steephead parrotfish, it is essential to provide ample space for swimming and grazing. A large tank of at least 5000 liters with robust filtration is necessary, along with plenty of algae for the fish to feed on.
Behaviour
The temperament of the steephead parrotfish is unknown, but they are known to be active swimmers that require a significant amount of space to move around comfortably in the aquarium.
Feeding and Diet
These parrotfish primarily feed on large polyp stone coral (LPS), macroalgae like seaweed or nori, microalgae such as spirulina, and small polyp stone coral (SPS). Their diet should be carefully monitored to ensure their nutritional needs are met.
Dimorphism
Information on sexual dimorphism and captive reproduction of the steephead parrotfish species is not provided.
Habitat and Distribution
The steephead parrotfish is found in the Indian Ocean, ranging from East Africa to southwest Indonesia, and extending north to the Andaman Sea. The species complex comprises Chlorurus gibbus in the Red Sea, Chlorurus strongylocephalus in the Indian Ocean, and Chlorurus microrhinos.