Caribbean Reef Balancing Act

Parrot Fish

The parrot fish with its colorful, multi-patterned designs and parrot-like beak is credited with being the sandmaker of the sea -- perfectly suited to crushing and eating coral.

Parrot fish don't set out to eat coral. Their sharp beaks pulverize the coral to get the tender animal tissue and the algae that grows on it. When parrot fish excrete the ground-up coral, it ends up on the ocean bottom as sand.

The Caribbean reefs need parrot fish now more than ever as disease has all but eliminated the long-spined sea urchin, another algae eater. Research based on computer modeling by marine biologists show that when it comes to quashing algae, parrot fish are now the key protectors of the Caribbean reef ecosystem.

But now, parrot fish are disappearing too. Why? Grouper and snapper have been over exploited by Caribbean fishermen. Parrot fish, although not as tasty, were more available and by default, are now a popular choice in restaurants. Now they are being overfished.

Learn how some islands have begun sustained conservation efforts to protect the parrot fish.

Script by Bob Rhein

Discovery Links

To learn more about today’s topic, please explore the links below:

• Parrotfish on the Menu
• Coral Reefs Under Attack
• The Amazing Parrotfish
• Support Sustainable Fishing