Redband parrotfish

Sparisoma aurofrenatum (common names: redband parrotfish, gutong, rainbow parrot, black parrot, and blisterside) is a species of parrotfish native to the Caribbean Sea and Western Atlantic Ocean.

Habitat

Sparisoma aurofrenatum lives on reefs in depths of 2 to 20 metres. The juveniles live among seagrass beds.

Distribution

This species occurs throughout the Caribbean Sea, and the western Atlantic Ocean in the waters of Bermuda, Florida, the Bahamas to Central America and Brazil.

Behaviour

Sparisoma aurofrenatum is solitary or found in small groups. It may found resting on the bottom. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite.

While swimming about reefs, this fish will use only its pectoral fins. Only when requiring a sudden burst of speed will it use its tail.

Specimens may be seen defecating frequently, which appears as a white cloud as it is mostly composed of coral limestone.