The Candelamoa Parrotfish, scientifically known as Hipposcarus harid, is a captivating marine fish distinguished by its vibrant coloration and significant size. Its unique characteristics and ecological role make it a fascinating subject of study for marine biologists and enthusiasts alike.
Description & Characteristics
The Candelamoa Parrotfish can reach a maximum size of 75.0 cm, making it one of the larger species of parrotfish. Its body is typically elongated and compressed, with a distinctive head profile characterized by a prominent snout. The fish displays a striking array of colors, often exhibiting a combination of bright blues, yellows, and greens.
Habitat and Occurrence
Hipposcarus harid exhibits a preference for subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans, ranging from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at approximately 200 m water depth. This preference for the neritic zone, where sunlight still penetrates, reflects its dependence on sunlight-dependent food sources and habitats. The Candelamoa Parrotfish can be found in various coral reef environments, particularly those rich in algae, their primary food source.
Taxonomy
The species Hipposcarus harid belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Scaridae. This classification places it within the group of bony fishes and more specifically, among the parrotfishes. The Scaridae family is characterized by their strong, beak-like teeth used for scraping algae off coral reefs and their distinctive coloration and patterns.
Feeding
The Candelamoa Parrotfish is an herbivorous species, primarily feeding on algae. Their diet includes a variety of algae, such as lettuce and nori algae, which they graze on using their powerful beak-like teeth. This feeding behavior plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of coral reef ecosystems by controlling the growth of algae.
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