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Caribbean Razorfish
(Halichoeres scapularis)
Halichoeres scapularis, commonly known as the Caribbean razorfish, is a species of wrasse found in the western Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the Caribbean Sea and adjacent areas. Here are some key characteristics and information about this species:
- Appearance: Caribbean razorfish have an elongated, slender body with a pointed snout. They are generally yellow to brown in color with a darker stripe running horizontally along their sides. Their fins may have faint spots or markings.
- Size: They typically grow to about 10-15 centimeters (4-6 inches) in length, although some individuals may reach slightly larger sizes.
- Habitat: These wrasses inhabit shallow coastal waters, particularly around reefs, rocky areas, and seagrass beds. They are often found in sandy areas adjacent to coral reefs or hiding among seagrass and rubble.
- Behavior: Caribbean razorfish are known for their distinctive habit of darting into the sand headfirst when disturbed or threatened, hence their name “razorfish.” They use their pointed snout to burrow quickly into the substrate, where they can hide and evade predators.
- Diet: They are carnivorous and feed primarily on small invertebrates such as crustaceans, worms, and small mollusks that they find in the sandy bottoms and among seagrass.