The Bumphead Parrotfish, Double-headed Parrotfish, Green Humphead Parrotfish, Humphead Parrotfish, Hump-head Parrotfish, scientifically known as Bolbometopon muricatum, is a large and distinctive species of parrotfish found in the Indo-Pacific region. This fish is recognized for its prominent hump on its forehead, giving it its distinctive appearance.
Description & Characteristics
The Bolbometopon muricatum is the largest species of parrotfish, with individuals reaching a maximum size of 130.0 cm. They are characterized by a robust, deep body with a large head and a prominent hump above the eyes. The color of the fish varies with age and sex. Juveniles are typically brown to olive green with darker stripes, while adults exhibit a more vibrant color palette, ranging from green to blue, with occasional hints of yellow. Both sexes share the distinctive hump, which serves as a secondary sexual characteristic. They have strong, beak-like teeth, which they use to graze on algae and coral polyps.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Bolbometopon muricatum is a widespread species found throughout the Indo-Pacific region. They typically inhabit Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zone of the oceans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. neritic. regions, making them a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems. They are often found in coral reefs and seagrass beds, where they feed and seek shelter. The species has been observed at depths ranging from 0.0 to 40.0 meters, demonstrating their adaptability to various marine environments.
Taxonomy
The species Bolbometopon muricatum belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Scaridae. This classification highlights its position within the diverse world of bony fishes, emphasizing its unique characteristics and evolutionary lineage.
Feeding
The Bolbometopon muricatum is primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and coral polyps. This corallivorous diet plays a crucial role in coral reef ecosystems, contributing to the balance and health of these vital marine habitats. Their strong teeth are perfectly adapted for scraping algae off surfaces and breaking down coral polyps. The species’ feeding habits contribute significantly to the overall health and dynamics of the coral reef ecosystem.
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