We thought it would be informative and fun to share details of the marine life we usually spot around Sipadan, Mabul and Kapalai. Instead of just sharing photos, information about the fish species also helps to create awareness.
Fish are not just meant for your plate.
The more you dive and learn about fish (take a look at the PADI Fish Identification course), you will know when and why you need to draw a limit between what is fine to eat and what is not. Learn more about sustainable agriculture and why it is a better option when it comes to food and protecting the environment.
Meet Bolbometopon Muricatum or popularly known as Bumphead Parrotfish or Humphead Parrotfish (and a couple of other names). Easily distinguished by its huge choppers and its bulbous forehead; it’s a sight to behold. In Sipadan and places like the Great Barrier Reef, the giant parrotfish can usually be found in a large group. They are actually quite gregarious.
The Bumphead parrotfish is the biggest for its parrotfish species. It weighs close to 50kg and grows up to 1.3 meters in length. It feeds on live corals and can eat up to 5 tons of reef a year, significantly contributing to bioerosion.
Classified under ‘Vulnerable’ (IUN), these species are slow growing and can live up to 40 years. It is also known that their reproduction is slow.
So the next time you see them underwater, enjoy it. You are some of the lucky people that get to see them. And the next time you are buying or ordering your fish, ask first.
You, will make a difference.
references: wikipedia & iucnredlist
