The Smooth razorfish (Centriscus cristatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Centriscidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The smooth razorfish is a peculiar shrimpfish (Centriscidae) from coastal waters of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a thin, blade-shaped body encased in a glassy, transparent armour with a sharp ventral edge, and a long tubular snout. It swims characteristically head-down, often in small schools among seagrass and sea-urchin spines, and sucks up small zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Smooth razorfish?
The Smooth razorfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Smooth razorfish live?
The Smooth razorfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Indonesia, New Caledonia
How big does the Smooth razorfish get?
The Smooth razorfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Smooth razorfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Smooth 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Centriscus
More from the family Centriscidae

Want the complete picture on the Smooth razorfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smooth razorfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.