Parrot Fish or Vieja,Fuerteventura Nature
Parrot Fish (Sparisoma cretense) known locally in Fuerteventura as Vieja are common off the coast of Fuerteventura, this is the most famous fish on the island, much sought after by fishermen and divers.
Parrot Fish are named for their numerous teeth are arranged in a tightly packed mosaic on the external surface of their jaw bones, forming a parrot-like beak with which they rasp algae from coral and other rocky substrates. Their sharp teeth are especially useful when they feed on crabs. They feed over the rocky sea bed often down to a depth of 50 metres. They are very good to eat and can be found in most restaurants serving seafood, and in local supermarkets in Fuerteventura.
They are often caught close to the shore in rocky areas and can often be seen when snorkelling.
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