Fin's Fish Guide
The Coral shrimpfish (Aeoliscus strigatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Centriscidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Indo-West Pacific; shallow reefs, among sea urchins and staghorn coral.
Description
The razorfish is a remarkable coastal fish of the shrimpfish family (Centriscidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a very thin body encased in transparent bony plates and a long, tubular snout. Characteristically the fish swims head-down, almost vertically, in synchronised schools. It likes to shelter among the long spines of sea urchins (Diadema) or in staghorn coral and feeds on small zooplankton, which it sucks up with the tubular snout. Owing to limited data the species is assessed as Data Deficient (DD). It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Coral shrimpfish?
The Coral shrimpfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Swims head-down in aligned shoals; shelters among sea urchin spines.
Where does the Coral shrimpfish live?
The Coral shrimpfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; shallow reefs, among sea urchins and staghorn coral.
How big does the Coral shrimpfish get?
The Coral shrimpfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Coral shrimpfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Coral shrimpfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Coral shrimpfish edible?
The Coral shrimpfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
More from the family Centriscidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Coral shrimpfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.