Shore Buddies Wisdom Wednesday 09/08/21
Photo by: https://www.instagram.com/divercaptain/
One might think the parrotfish gets its' name from its bright-colored scales, but did you know it is because of its' fused teeth, which resemble that of a parrot beak? Additionally, the color of their scales is determined by their sex, status, or maturity. They use these teeth to specifically scrape algae off rocks, while they use another set of teeth to ingest their food. Just like a herd of cattle in a field, parrotfish graze over reefs, so much so that after just one year, they can convert coral into one ton of sand! Found in the world’s tropical waters, it is crucial to practice clean beach practices on vacation to protect this colorful species!