Yellowfin Parrotfish (male)

Description

Males are recognized by the yellow pectoral fins, horizontal yellow-green band from tip of snout to above pectoral fin base and large individuals with oval yellow patch on caudal peduncle. Females are plain yellowish grey with pale lines along abdominal area. Scales are large. Median predorsal scales 4; 3 scale rows on cheek, ventral row with 1-2 scales. Truncate caudal fin in initial phase (slightly rounded); slightly lunate in terminal phase. Dental plates nearly covered by lips. Terminal males with 1 or 2 upward-projecting canines posteriorly on lower dental plate and 1 on upper plate. Large initial phase individuals are tan while terminal phase individuals have a distinctive transparent yellowish-tan pectoral fin. Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9.

Distribution

It is found in the western Central Pacific from the Philippines east to the Solomon Islands, north to the Marshall Islands and south to Scott Reef and the Great Barrier Reef, it has also been recorded from Tonga.

Habitat

Inhabits lagoon and channel reefs, usually deeper 20 m.