Fin's Fish Guide
The Scalpel sawtail (Prionurus scalprum) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 50 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Korea (South)
Description
The scalpel sawtail is a sawtail surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from temperate reef waters of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a deep, grey-brown body and a row of sharp, bony plates on the tail base that act as scalpels. As a reef-dweller it grazes algae from rocks and coral. The tail plates can cause deep cuts when handled; otherwise the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Scalpel sawtail?
The Scalpel sawtail has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Scalpel sawtail live?
The Scalpel sawtail lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Korea (South)
How big does the Scalpel sawtail get?
The Scalpel sawtail grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Scalpel sawtail dangerous to humans?
The Scalpel sawtail can cause injury; handle it with care. Do not grab the fish by the tail: sawtails carry sharp, scalpel-like bony plates on the tail base that can cause deep cuts. For a cut: clean the wound, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing; for a deep wound seek medical assessment and check tetanus status.
Is the Scalpel sawtail edible?
Yes, the Scalpel sawtail 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 Scalpel sawtail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Scalpel sawtail is one of 12,519 species in the app.