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Chlorurus spilurus

Bullethead parrotfish (Chlorurus sordidus) (37479197131)

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The Pacific Bullethead Parrotfish (Chlorurus spilurus), also known as the Pacific Daisy Parrotfish, is a species of fish in the family Scaridae. It is also known by the Hawaiian name of the Uhu throughout the Hawaiian Island Chain.

Description

The Pacific Bullethead Parrotfish can be found throughout the Western Central Pacific, ranging from Southern Japan all the way to the Hawaiian Island Chain. There are distinct differences in the males and females of this species, an example of sexual dimorphism. Female Pacific Bullethead Parrotfish are a darker brownish-green and have distinct spots the can be found behind the pectoral fins, and are just slightly smaller than the males. Males are a vibrant blue-green gradient and can be up to 3cm (1.2 inches) longer than female parrotfish. This, however, is interesting as parrotfish do have the ability to change their sex from female to male if needed.

Distribution

Chlorurus spilurus can be found from Indonesia to Hawaii and to the Pitcairn Island.

Habitat

Endemic to Hawaii, these parrotfish in particular are found in coral rich reefs and lagoons in the waters surrounding the Hawaiian Island chain.

Diet

The Uhu, or parrotfish are plant eaters with beaks that are designed for easily breaking off chunks of coral reef with algae attached to the coral for consumption.

Cultural Significance

The pacific bullethead parrotfish was, and still is a favorite amongst fishermen for meals. They were usually eaten raw, but also were boiled on occasion. The Uhu also has a prominent space in Hawaiian culture and folklore, particularly in the story of Puniakaia, where a supernatural parrotfish is said to be the parent of all fish species. In the end, two heroes named Kawelo and Makuakeke killed the fish named Uhumaka'ika'i.

References

• Titcomb, Margaret. Native Use of Fish in Hawaii. [2d ed.]. Honolulu: University Press of Hawaii, 1972. Print.
• Hoover, John P., and John P. Hoover. The Ultimate Guide to Hawaiian Reef Fishes Sea Turtles, Dolphins, Whales, and Seals . Rev. ed. Honolulu: Mutual Pub., 2008. Print.
• Hoover, John P. Hawaii’s Fishes : a Guide for Snorkelers, Divers, and Aquarists . Honolulu, Hawaii: Mutual Pub., 1993. Print.
• Froese, R. and D. Pauly. Editors. 2021.FishBase.World Wide Web electronic publication.www.fishbase.org, ( 06/2021 )
• "Intertidal of Hawaiʻi". iNaturalist. Retrieved 2021-10-17.
• "Chlorurus spilurus, Pacific bullethead parrotfish". www.fishbase.se. Retrieved 2021-10-17.
• "Scientific Names of Regulated Species". Division of Aquatic Resources. 2014-04-23. Retrieved 2021-10-17.