Fin's Fish Guide
The Rosy Razorfish (Xyrichtys martinicensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The rosy razorfish is a small wrasse from the western Atlantic, ranging from southern Florida and the Bahamas to northern South America. It grows to about 19 cm and has a strongly laterally compressed body with a steep, blade-like head. Females are light greenish-grey with a pinkish belly and an orange-red stripe from the eye to the tail base; males develop blue spots on the scales and a yellow head with pale blue bands. When threatened the fish dives head first into the sand. It lives over sandy bottoms on reefs at depths of 2 to 21 metres and feeds on small invertebrates dug from the sand.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rosy Razorfish?
The Rosy Razorfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Dives head first into the sand when threatened; knife-like compressed body
Where does the Rosy Razorfish live?
The Rosy Razorfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic
How big does the Rosy Razorfish get?
The Rosy Razorfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Rosy Razorfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Rosy 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 Rosy Razorfish edible?
The Rosy 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 Xyrichtys
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Rosy Razorfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rosy Razorfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.