Fin's Fish Guide
The Razor surgeonfish (Prionurus laticlavius) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 60 cm.
South America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Galapagos Is., Panama, Peru and others
Description
The Razor surgeonfish is a sawtail surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from the eastern Pacific, around the Galapagos. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a deep, grey body. The grey body has a yellow tail and a row of black keel-plates before the tail. On each side of the tail base sits a row of sharp, fixed bony keel-plates that can inflict a cut; handle with care. As a reef-dweller it grazes algae.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Razor surgeonfish?
The Razor surgeonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Razor surgeonfish live?
The Razor surgeonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. South America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Galapagos Is., Panama, Peru and others
How big does the Razor surgeonfish get?
The Razor surgeonfish grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Razor surgeonfish dangerous to humans?
The Razor surgeonfish can cause injury; handle it with care. Never grab a live sawtail surgeonfish by the tail; sharp, fixed bony keel-plates sit on each side of the tail base. For a cut: rinse with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Deep wounds easily become infected: have them assessed medically and check tetanus status.
Is the Razor surgeonfish edible?
Yes, the Razor surgeonfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Prionurus
More from the family Acanthuridae
Want the complete picture on the Razor surgeonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Razor surgeonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.