Beach Builders of the Reef: The Parrotfish’s Hidden Role

The parrotfish is a key species in the marine ecosystem, particularly in the coral reefs of Wakatobi. It helps maintain reef health and contributes to beach formations by grinding coral into sand. Each parrotfish produces about 10 ounces of sand daily, leading to significant sand buildup that supports coastal habitats. These fish are commonly seen by divers and have interesting behaviors, such as creating mucous sleeping cocoons at night. Conserving the parrotfish population is crucial for reef health and beach preservation.