Fivefinger Razorfish (Iniistius pentadactylus)

Also known as Fivefinger Wrasse, Redspot Razor Wrasse, Redspot Razorfish, Sand Wrasse

Description

Also known as Fivefinger Wrasse, Redspot Razor Wrasse, Redspot Razorfish, Sand Wrasse.

Found in harems, over algae patches, sand and seagrass bottoms, of coastal reefs.
When disturbed they will dive into the sand, where they "swim" for long distances through the sand to deter predators.
They feed on hard shell invertebrates.
Juveniles brightly coloured and can look like dead leaves.
Length - 25cm
Depth - 2-30m
Widespread Indo-Pacific

Most reef fish seen by divers during the day, are grazers, they cruise around, just above the surface of the coral, or snoop into crevices, foraging for food.
Wrasses have small protruding teeth, which they use to graze the bottom, taking in a variety of algae, crustaceans, such as crabs, eggs, shrimps, snails and worms. Any hard coats or thick shells, are then ground down by their pharyngeal jaws, and the delicacies inside digested.
From juvenile to adult, wrasses dramatically alter their colour and body shapes.
Wrasses are always on the go during the day, but are the first to go to bed and the last to rise.
Small wrasses dive below the sand to sleep, and larger wrasses wedge themselves in crevices. (edit) Ref: https://www.fishbase.se/summary/7747

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