Scarus quoyi
| Identification | Terminal males are vivid green with pink-orange scale edges and bright blue-green facial markings; initial phase is a duller reddish-brown. Characteristic parrotfish beak. |
| Maximum Length | 16 inches |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific — Western Pacific reefs |
| Minimum Tank Size | 200 gallons |
| Reef Compatibility | With caution — will nip and scrape at corals, clams, and rock |
Behavior
Quoy’s Parrotfish is a large, active Indo-Pacific parrotfish prized for the brilliant green and pink coloration of terminal-phase males. Like other parrotfish it grazes continuously, using its powerful beak to scrape algae and coral from the reef. It is a robust, energetic swimmer that needs a very large aquarium with wide-open swimming lanes and substantial mature live rock. It is generally peaceful with tank mates but its size, appetite, and grazing habits make it a specimen for large systems only.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivore/omnivore. Scrapes algae, coral, and encrusting growth from rock. In captivity supply plenty of live rock for natural grazing, plus dried nori, herbivore pellets, and spirulina foods. Feed several times daily.
Cautions
Not fully reef safe — will damage corals, clams, and coralline algae. Reaches a substantial size with a heavy bioload; demands strong filtration and a very large tank. Needs mature rock with algae to graze on. Best suited to large FOWLR or fish-focused aquariums.