---
title: Purplestreak Parrotfish (Chlorurus genazonatus)
scientific_name: Chlorurus genazonatus
common_name: Purplestreak Parrotfish
taxon: Parrotfishes
conservation_status: LC - Least Concern
published: 2024-11-15T14:11:21.603Z
updated: 2026-08-07T21:09:19.017Z
tags: Purplestreak Parrotfish, Chlorurus genazonatus, Parrotfishes, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/parrotfishes/purplestreak-parrotfish
---

# Purplestreak Parrotfish (*Chlorurus genazonatus*)

## Quick facts

- **Group:** Parrotfishes (*Scaridae*)
- **Size:** 31 cm
- **Depth:** 6-20 m
- **Diet:** Herbivore
- **Reproduction:** Egg layer
- **Conservation status:** LC - Least Concern

The Purplestreak Parrotfish, scientifically known as Chlorurus genazonatus, is a fascinating marine species known for its striking appearance and unique behaviors. This vibrant fish dwells in the tropical waters of the Western Indian Ocean, particularly in regions like the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Favoring the reef-associated environments, the Purplestreak Parrotfish is usually found at depths ranging from 6 to 20 meters. 

One of the most distinctive features of this parrotfish is its coloration, which varies between genders. The males boast a vivid green body adorned with a unique pink bar on each scale. A pink stripe that runs from the eye across the cheek completes their colorful appearance, making them quite a sight for underwater explorers. 

Reef slopes are their preferred habitat, where they can be seen grazing on benthic algae. Their feeding habits play a crucial role in the ecosystem, as this grazing helps maintain the health of coral reefs by controlling algae growth. When it comes to reproduction, the Purplestreak Parrotfish is oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. During the breeding season, they exhibit distinct pairing behavior, forming pairs to reproduce.

Growing to a maximum length of about 31 cm, the Purplestreak Parrotfish is not just a marvel of the marine world because of its beautiful colors but also because of its ecological significance. Its interactions within the reef environment highlight the intricate connections between marine species and their habitats, underscoring the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems for future generations.

## Also known as

- **English:** Purplestreak Parrotfish, Sinai Parrotfish
- **Arabic:** Ghabban
- **French:** Perroquet de Sinai
- **Italian:** Pesce pappagallo del Sinai, Pesce pappagallo guancia viola
- **German:** Purpurwangen-Papageifisch
- **Spanish:** Loro de Sinaí
- **Portuguese:** Peixe-papagaio-de-mancha-roxa
- **Czech:** ploskozubec purpurolící
- **CA:** Peix lloro galta violeta

## Scientific synonyms

- *Scarus genazonatus* Randall & Bruce, 1983

## Range

Federal Republic of Somalia

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*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/parrotfishes/purplestreak-parrotfish)*
*Updated: August 7, 2026*