Shrimpfishes

Centriscidae

Shrimpfish, alternatively referred to as razorfish, consist of five small marine fish species found within the subfamily Centriscinae, belonging to the family Centriscidae. The species within the Aeoliscus and Centriscus genera inhabit relatively shallow tropical regions of the Indo-Pacific. On the other hand, the banded bellowsfish, often categorized in the subfamily Macroramphosinae, resides exclusively in deeper southern oceans.

Shrimpfish possess a nearly transparent and flattened physique with elongated snouts and razor-edged bellies. Along their bodies, a slender dark stripe is present, which contributes to their designation. These distinctive markings, coupled with their resemblance to shrimps, attribute to their name. Shrimpfish exhibit synchronized swimming patterns, with their heads consistently positioned downward. In terms of size, adult shrimpfish measure roughly 20 cm (7.9 inches) in length, including their snouts. In comparison, the banded bellowsfish bears a closer similarity to members of the subfamily Macroramphosinae, particularly Notopogon, in both physical appearance and behavior. It can grow up to 30 cm (12 inches) in length.