Fin's Fish Guide
The Fivefinger razorfish (Iniistius pentadactylus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The fivefinger razorfish is a wrasse from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a deep, strongly compressed, knife-like body with a steep head profile and a few red spots ('fingers') on the flank. It lives on sand flats near reefs and, when threatened, dives headfirst into the sand at lightning speed to hide. It feeds on small benthic invertebrates. Like other wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fivefinger razorfish?
The Fivefinger razorfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a spots pattern. Knife-like compressed body; dives into the sand when threatened; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Fivefinger razorfish live?
The Fivefinger razorfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Fivefinger razorfish get?
The Fivefinger razorfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Fivefinger razorfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Fivefinger razorfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Fivefinger razorfish edible?
The Fivefinger razorfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Iniistius
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Fivefinger razorfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fivefinger razorfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.