Bullethead Parrotfish

Chlorurus sordidus, commonly known as the daisy undefined or bullethead undefined, is a marine fish species belonging to the Scaridae family.

During the initial phase, the coloration of Chlorurus sordidus varies greatly. Smaller individuals can exhibit a uniform dark brown to light gray color, with or without a light band surrounding a dark spot on the caudal peduncle. Larger specimens may display irregular rows of small light spots towards the tail or have the light band surrounding the dark spot on the caudal peduncle. In the terminal phase, when the fish becomes male, it can have a large tan area on the flanks or on its caudal peduncle. The species is characterized by a rounded snout and is of medium size, with a maximum length of 40 cm (16 inches).

Chlorurus sordidus is found throughout the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, including the 🌊 Red Sea.

Before sleeping, Chlorurus sordidus secretes a mucus that envelops its body in a complete cocoon. The exact purpose of this mucus cocoon is not fully understood, but one theory suggests that it provides protection against parasitic gnathiids. This species is known to be preyed upon by the honeycomb grouper (Epinephelus merra) and the coral trout (Plectropomus leopardus), while its parasites include the monogenean Benedenia scari. Chlorurus sordidus is a sociable fish that forms schools with other undefined species such as Scarus psittacus. It is one of the most widespread undefined species, displaying significant variability, with certain geographically determined forms likely qualifying as subspecies. The fish can be found in coral-rich areas, open pavement areas of shallow reef flats, lagoon reefs, seaward reefs, and drop-offs. Juveniles inhabit areas of coral rubble in reef flats and lagoons. During their initial phase, both juveniles and females form large groups that migrate long distances between feeding grounds and nighttime sleeping areas. They primarily feed on benthic algae. Chlorurus sordidus is a protogynous hermaphrodite, with a sex change occurring when individuals reach a total length of 35.1–47.2 centimeters (13.8–18.6 inches).