Pearly razorfish

The Pearly razorfish is found abundant in our waters and is native to Cyprus. This fish can grow up to 30 centimeters in length, but usually ranges between 10 and 20 centimeters. The species’ breeding season begins in July and ends around late August. It is rarely targeted and is usually caught accidentally using static nets, bottom-set longlines, vertical lines, and rods.

It is a benthic species and is found in areas with dense vegetation, but mainly in areas with sandy and muddy substrates, not far from the coast, at depths between 1 and 50 meters. It feeds on small invertebrates, mollusks, crustaceans, small fish, and shrimp. It is a hermaphroditic protogynous fish and reaches sexual maturity at about 2 years of age, when its length is between 12 and 15 centimeters. As shown in the images, this species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males and females differing morphologically. Males always have more vivid colors and are usually greenish-blue, while females are usually a faded pink.

It is recommended to ask your fisher or fishmonger where the fish was caught and with which fishing method, as well as buying this species outside of its spawning period. Prefer locally harvested seafood products by coastal small-scale fisheries.