Parrotfish: The Reef's Colorful Sand-Maker

If one fish steals the show on a snorkel tour near Jacó, it's often the parrotfish. Painted in blues, greens, and yellows and busy crunching away at the rocks, it's hard to miss once you know what you're looking at. Here's how to spot one in our Central Pacific cove — and the surprising reason it's one of the ocean's most important little gardeners.

How to recognize a parrotfish

Parrotfish get their name from their most obvious feature: their teeth are fused into a hard, beak-like plate that really does look like a parrot's bill. Add vivid, patchwork coloring — turquoise, emerald, orange, and pink depending on the species and age — and a steady, unhurried way of swimming, and they're one of the easier reef fish for a first-timer to pick out. They're usually a comfortable size too, big enough to follow with your eyes as they graze along the rocks.

Listen for the crunch

Here's a trick most guests don't expect: you can often hear a parrotfish before you really focus on it. They use that beak to scrape algae off the rocks and reef, and the crunching is loud enough to carry through the water. Once you notice the sound, look toward the rocks and there's a good chance you'll find the culprit nibbling away.

Where you'll see them in our cove

Parrotfish stick close to the rocky edges where the algae grows, which happens to be exactly the calm, shallow water we snorkel near Playa Mantas. You don't need to dive deep or swim far — they tend to work the same stretches of rock near the surface, and your in-water guide knows the spots where they gather. Mornings, when the water is clearest, are the best time to watch their colors pop.

Look, don't touch

Parrotfish are curious but gentle, and the best way to enjoy them is to float quietly and watch. There's no need to chase or touch any reef life — stay relaxed and the fish will often come closer on their own. Our guides keep everyone a respectful distance so the cove stays healthy for the next group.

The parrotfish is just one of many characters down there. For the full cast, read our guide to the fish and marine life you'll see snorkeling near Jacó, or see real guest photos and reviews on the Snorkel Jaco reviews.