Giant rainbow parrotfish crucial to reef survival

Few fish have such dazzling color as the giant rainbow parrotfish. Normally reclusive, these shy giants will occasionally venture out into the open to delight divers. A true giant among the parrotfish family, they reach 4 feet in length and weigh up to 45 pounds. Parrotfish cruise over the coral, scraping the algae off with their large teeth. Without parrotfish, the reef would become overwhelmed with algae blooms and would die. Scientists tell us that parrotfish are the most crucial fish for reef survival.