Pearly razorfish

The pearly razorfish (Xyrichtys novacula), commonly known as cleaver wrasse, is a species of wrasse. It is of minor importance to local commercial fisheries and is popular as a game fish. It can also be found in the aquarium trade.

Description
Xyrichtys novacula can reach 38 cm in total length, though most do not exceed 20 cm. Its body is elongate and very compressed laterally, the head is flattened, with a steep profile and sharp teeth. Its long dorsal fin extends along most of its back. It has 9 dorsal spines, 12 dorsal soft rays, 3 anal spines and 12 anal soft rays. This wrasse has a yellow-orange or reddish-pink color that is darker on the back and lighter on the belly, sometimes marked with green and gray stripes. Head shows vertical narrow light blue lines and there are scales with brisk reflexes on the abdomen. Upon capture, this fish has been known to turn its mouth and sharp protruding teeth past 90 degrees to either side in relationship to its own body as an attempt to be released from capture.

Distribution and habitat
The pearly razorfish is widespread throughout the western and eastern subtropical and tropical Atlantic Ocean, as well as the Mediterranean Sea. It inhabits clear, shallow littoral areas with sandy or muddy bottoms, at depths of 1 to 20 m. In winter it migrates to greater depths, up to 90–150 m.

Behavior and diet
Xyrichtys novacula buries itself rapidly in the bottom when disturbed. It feeds on small invertebrates such as crustaceans, mollusks and echinoderms.

Synonyms
A large number of specific names have been determined to refer to this species as junior synonyms:

Predators
The Pearly razorfish has been shown to be successful bait for the Greater Amberjack species (aka reef donkey).