The gracile lizardfish (Saurida gracilis) is a lizardfish species predominantly found in the Indo-Pacific region. This species inhabits marine environments, specifically within reef-associated areas, and is typically located at benthic depths ranging from 1 to 12 meters (3.3 to 39.4 feet). It thrives in tropical climates and can reach a maximum length of approximately 32 centimeters (12.6 inches) in unsexed males.
The gracile lizardfish is prevalent across various regions, including the Indo-Pacific, the 🌊 Red Sea, East Africa, as well as the Hawaiian, Marquesan, and Ducie Islands. Its distribution extends northward to the Ryukyu and Ogasawara Islands, and southward to the Great Barrier Reef, Lord Howe Island, and Rapa. This species typically inhabits sandy and silty reefs, shallow lagoons, reef flats, and shelteundefinedward reefs.
In terms of diet, the gracile lizardfish primarily consumes other fish and exhibits nocturnal activity patterns. It is generally found in solitary rather than communal settings and is alternatively referred to as the slender lizardfish. Importantly, this species poses no known threat or harm to humans.
Why it's threatened
Threat classification from the IUCN Red List.
