The main reasons why red parrotfish turn white are as follows:
Water Temperature Changes: Parrotfish are very sensitive to water temperature. Sudden changes in water temperature can lead to a stress response, which in turn causes the fish to fade in color. The suitable temperature range for parrotfish is between 25℃ and 28℃. If the water temperature changes by more than 0.5℃ instantaneously, it will trigger a stress response in the parrotfish, resulting in their body color turning white.
Water Quality Problems: Changes in water quality are one of the important reasons for parrotfish to fade in color. When the water quality deteriorates or just after the water is changed, parrotfish may show signs of fading. Good water quality conditions are the key to maintaining the body color of parrotfish.
Injection of Pigments: Some parrotfish may have been injected with pigments before being sold. These pigments can remain in the bodies of ornamental fish for a period of time. However, if the breeding environment is improper, the pigments will gradually fade away, causing the fish bodies to turn white.
Environmental Changes: When parrotfish are placed in a new environment, they may fade in color due to not adapting to it. Usually, this situation will gradually improve after the sense of discomfort is eliminated.
Bait Problems: Parrotfish may have eaten bait that enhances redness during their juvenile stage. If the subsequent bait does not continue to enhance the color, the color of the fish bodies will gradually fade.
Diseases and Fright: Diseases such as white spot disease and black spot disease can cause the body color of parrotfish to turn white, and being frightened can also lead to fading. Diseases need to be treated in a timely manner, and fright should be avoided.
To solve these problems, it is recommended to keep the water temperature stable and avoid sudden changes; regularly test the water quality to ensure it is good; choose appropriate bait to maintain a stable diet for parrotfish; and pay attention to disease prevention and avoid frightening the fish.