Humphead Parrotfish

Overview

• Can grow nearly 1.5 meters in length.
• Known for their powerful jaws capable of biting through rock.

Feeding Behavior

• Indiscriminate feeders; consume both rock and coral to access algae.
• Play a significant role in the erosion of reef structures.

Impact on Reef Ecosystem

• The rock and coral ingested by humphead parrotfish is expelled as fine sand.
• On a single reef, they can produce tons of sand each year.

Formation of Tropical Beaches

• The sand produced contributes to the formation of tropical beaches.
• Over time, accumulated sand can form islands.

Island Colonization

• Islands become habitats for various animals and plants.
• Trees take root, and birds arrive to nest.
• Guano from nesting birds enriches sandy soil, supporting more plant life.