Bumphead Parrotfish Spawning in Palau

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Experience the epic dance of nature beneath the waves.

Dive into the captivating underwater world of Palau and witness the impressive spectacle of bumphead parrotfish spawning. Palau hosts the world’s largest gathering of bumphead parrotfish during the new moon phase, and Black Pearl Explorer offers a unique itinerary coincide with this incredible event.

What is Bumphead Parrot Fish Spawning?

These majestic creatures can reach up to 4 feet long, display vibrant colors, and can weigh up to 100 pounds. During this rare courtship, hundreds of parrotfish display distinctive bumps on their heads. Males smash together like buffalo to gain superiority, while females face color transitions to white signaling they are ready to mate. A female and male find each other they initiate the spawn by rising cheek to cheek toward the surface – where other males aggressively try to get in on the action. It is a breathtaking event that highlights the power of nature.

You will also be able to see twin-spot red snapper spawning during this time. Shortly before the full moon, thousands of red snappers gather over the reef to breed. When the tide begins to shift, they rush up towards the surface releasing sperm and eggs in an explosive display attracting predators and divers. These fish often live solitarily, hanging out at corners and edges of the reef, so this is an incredibly rare spectacle.

When to Go

The best time to witness bumphead parrotfish spawning is during the new moon, all year-round. In this phase, thousands of bumphead parrotfish come together, in what is considered the largest bumphead parrotfish aggregation in the world. This much ocean activity unsurprisingly attracts many underwater predators. The coral reefs of Palau become a vibrant showcase of life providing a unique underwater spectacle.

Scuba Diving in Palau

Palau, located in the western Pacific Ocean, is a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine waters and rich marine biodiversity. The bumphead parrotfish are a breathtaking spectacle for divers lucky enough to witness it. But bumphead parrotfish are not the only attraction in Palau. The archipelago is home to a range of marine biodiversity, including reef sharks, manta rays, dolphins, and many colorful tropical fish. The crystal-clear waters provide excellent visibility, allowing divers to fully appreciate the beauty of the underwater world.

Palau also boasts several world-class dive sites. From the famous Blue Corner and Blue Holes to the stunning German Channel and Chandelier Cave, there is no shortage of thrilling dive spots to explore. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, Palau offers something for everyone, with dive sites suitable for all levels of experience.

Diver Note: Due to strong currents, this itinerary requires certification of Advanced Open Water (or equivalent) and a minimum of 50 logged dives. Reef hooks are highly recommended for some dives.

About Black Pearl Explorer

Embark on this unforgettable diving adventure aboard the Black Pearl Explorer. Our experienced dive guides will lead you to the best areas to see the spawning parrotfish so you can witness the famous dance up close. Amongst the vessel’s four decks, stay in one of 12 impressive ocean-view rooms, enjoy an indoor dining cafe and bar, relax on an outdoor seating area with bar, and take in the sights from the whirlpool, and a 360˚ view sundeck. With luxurious accommodations and top-notch dining and diving facilities, our liveaboard will ensure a comfortable and exhilarating holiday experience.