Fin's Fish Guide
The Green razorfish (Xyrichtys splendens) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The green razorfish is a wrasse from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a strongly laterally compressed, knife-like body with a steep, sharp head and a greenish to red-brown colour. When threatened it dives head-first into the sand in a flash to disappear. As a dweller of seagrass and sand flats it searches for small crustaceans and molluscs. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Green razorfish?
The Green razorfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Knife-shaped body; dives head first into the sand; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Green razorfish live?
The Green razorfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic
How big does the Green razorfish get?
The Green razorfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Green razorfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Green 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 Green razorfish edible?
The Green razorfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Xyrichtys
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Green razorfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Green razorfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.