Bumphead Parrotfish: Habitat & Feeding Behaviour |UPSC Notes

One of the most interesting and large fish species in coral reef systems is the bumphead parrotfish, characterized by the knob on its head. This fish plays a vital role in the ecosystem of reefs. Of late, threats from overfishing and habitat destruction to the parrotfish make it necessary for people to understand the implications of the species for marine biodiversity to protect them. The bumphead parrotfish plays a vital role in a coral reef ecosystem because it feeds on algae and coral. Feeding limits algal growth and allows corals to grow by keeping algae from overwhelming the entire reef.

• Bumphead parrotfish are also the largest species of the parrotfish family.
• One may grow up to 1.3 meters.
• Its bulbous head bump is made use of to hit against coral while feeding.
• These are found in the Indo-Pacific region.

GS Paper	GS Paper III
Topics for UPSC Prelims	Marine Biodiversity, Ecological Importance, Endangered Species,
Topics for UPSC Mains	Conservation Efforts, Threats to Marine Species, Policy Framework

Habitat and Distribution of the Bumphead Parrotfish

Bumphead parrotfishes come from tropical and subtropical coral reefs. They are known to be in areas that cover the Indian Ocean to the western Pacific, bounded by the Great Barrier Reef, and Red Sea up to parts of Southeast Asia. They prefer lagoons and the outer reef slopes where most coral growth abounds.

These fish love the shallow waters, between 1 to 30 meters deep. They can be spotted schooling in big groups most of the daytime as they feed on coral and algae. This fish’s size and nature, which are large and social, are indeed a marine spectacle to the divers and the biologists.

Feeding Behavior and Diet

The diet of the bumphead parrotfish is special since it mainly comprises of coral and algae. Using its beak-like teeth, it eats portions of coral and grinds them into a pulp then extracts algae dwelling within the coral. Not only does the fish get fed by it, but it also forms an important source in the ecosystem of the reef. The digested coral comes out as fine sand, contributing heavily to the formation of sandy beaches.

Feeding habits

• Bumphead parrotfish can consume over five tons of coral per year.
• Feeding activity is common in the early morning and late afternoon.
• The corals are crushed with beak-like teeth before being pulverized into fine pieces.

Social Structure and Behaviour

The bumphead parrotfish is a very social animal and makes long movements in groups. Sometimes, more than 50 are seen in a group. Schooling ensures protection against predators: the size and numbers make this form of attack on such a massive aggregation not worthwhile for many predators. They are also known for their coordinated movements, particularly in feeding when grazing the reefs in unison.

Not to be overlooked, however, is their bumphead. It does not exist solely as a cosmetic feature but also serves a vital purpose in social interactions, such as during mating rituals and dominance displays. Males often engage in head-butting contests; they will use their bony foreheads to establish dominance.

Reproduction and Lifespan

The breeding behaviors of the bumphead parrotfish are not yet fully understood, but it is a known fact that they spawn in major aggregations. Most often, their spawning events coincide with lunar cycles for the larvae of the species to have the maximum feasible survival chances in the ocean’s currents.

• Bumphead parrotfish can live up to 40 years.
• They are hermaphrodites, which means they may change sex sometime during their lifetime.
• Spawning in big groups almost always occurs at full moon times.

Conservation Status and Threats

The bump head parrotfish is classified on the IUCN Red List as being “vulnerable”. The main threats are overfishing, where they are primarily harvested for meat, and habitat loss due to the degradation of coral reefs. Since this species breeds slowly, its populations are threatened with a potential crash if conservation is not done.

Conservation measures

• Marine habitats must be protected as they are occupied by bumphead parrotfish.
• Train local people on how to better protect and conserve the fish using sustainable fishing methods.
• Reduce human impact on coral reefs to conserve the habitat they provide.

Importance in Marine Ecosystem

This bumphead parrotfish is considered a “keystone species.” Its role in coral reef ecosystems is immense. By eating the coral and keeping algae from overgrowing the reefs, these parrotfish help to maintain the fragile marine life that thrives in these areas. These reefs, dependent on such species as the bumphead parrotfish, shelter thousands of marine animals and contribute millions to the world economy through tourism and fisheries.

Conclusion

Observing the bumphead parrotfish is magnificent in itself, but it also assumes an irreplaceable role in the health and sustainability of coral reef ecosystems. This species should be protected well to ensure the continuance of healthy coral reefs in the future.

Bumphead Parrotfish UPSC Notes

1. Bumphead parrotfish are the largest species of parrotfish and play a crucial role in coral reef ecosystems. 2. They are found in tropical and subtropical coral reefs, primarily in the Indo-Pacific region, living in shallow waters. 3. Their diet consists of coral and algae, and they contribute to beach formation by excreting coral as sand. 4. Bumphead parrotfish are social creatures, traveling in large schools and engaging in head-butting contests to establish dominance. 5. They are slow breeders and vulnerable to overfishing and coral reef degradation, with a lifespan of up to 40 years. 6. Conservation efforts focus on protecting marine habitats and promoting sustainable fishing practices to prevent further decline in their population.

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