Feeding Habits of Scarus ghobban in Kenya

Scarus ghobban is a tropical marine fish of the family Scaridae commonly found in coral reefs, lagoons, sandy bottoms, and seagrass habitats along the Kenyan coast. The species is recognized by its bright coloration and fused beak-like teeth adapted for scraping algae and organic matter from coral and rocky surfaces. As an herbivorous reef fish, S. ghobban plays an important ecological role by controlling algal growth, supporting coral recruitment, and contributing to reef productivity and sediment formation.

In the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region, the species has gained increasing commercial and ornamental value. Besides being harvested for food, its attractive coloration, unique body patterns, and ability to graze algae have increased its demand in marine aquariums and ornamental fish markets. Juveniles and brightly colored adults are especially preferred in public and private aquaria for their aesthetic appeal and ecological function in maintaining clean aquarium environments. Growing demand for both consumption and ornamental trade has increased fishing pressure on natural populations, raising concerns about overexploitation and reef ecosystem sustainability.

This study examined the food and feeding habits of S. ghobban collected from the Msambweni fishing grounds along the south coast of Kenya between January and February 2018. Gut content analysis was used to identify and quantify food items to the highest possible taxonomic level using standard identification keys. Results showed that the species mainly feeds on algae, seagrass fragments, detritus, and coral-associated materials, confirming its herbivorous grazing behavior. Variations in diet among size classes suggested changes in feeding preference during growth. The findings provide valuable information for fisheries management, conservation planning, and sustainable utilization of parrotfish resources in Kenyan coastal waters.