Nature Field Guide
Razor Surgeonfish
- Spanish name
- Navajón barbero
- Scientific name
- Prionurus laticlavius
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “A yellow tail behind a gray body!”
Tati: “Look at the shape too. We keep our hands away from the tail base.”
Species overview
About the Razor Surgeonfish
The oval body has a steep forehead and small mouth. Adults show a yellow tail, darker head or shoulder bands and bony structures along each side of the tail base.
This species often forms schools around rocky reefs. Smithsonian now treats the previously named Prionurus punctatus as the spotted form of this species, so the two names should not become duplicate cards.
Identification
Key Features of the Razor Surgeonfish
Gray oval body
Bright yellow tail
Bony structures at tail base
Habitat & range
Pacific rocky reefs and nearby coastal marine habitats. Check the linked species reference for its wider range.
Local observations
Recorded at Cabo Blanco.
When to observe
Visibility depends on water clarity, currents, depth and conditions. No fixed local viewing or migration season is assigned.
Conservation & care
Keep clear of tail-base structures and strong jaws. Observe with a qualified guide. Do not feed, chase or handle fish. Keep fins off the reef and take all litter home.
Threats & pressures
Habitat damage and degraded water quality are pressures to prevent in coastal fish habitats. This profile does not quantify a local decline.
Observation activity
Find a side-view photograph and draw the gray body beside the bright yellow tail.
Explore by location
Puntarenas & the Gulf Islands · South Pacific · Ocean & Coastal Life