Halstead's Razor Wrasse (Xyrichthys halsteadi)

The Halstead's Razor Wrasse (Xyrichthys halsteadi) has beautiful pastel colors that makes it seem like it comes out of a fairy tale, but that isn't so. It's a razorfish that is not commonly seen in aquariums and is often misidentified when seen. It doesn't help that not much is known about it. What we do know about it is that its occurring range is wide and covers the eastern central and western central Pacific ocean. It is commonly found at depths of 30 meters or more in sandy areas away from reefs. Hobbyist should care for it like any other razorfish of the same genus. Provide it with an aquarium home of about 100 gallons or more to ensure it has plenty of swimming space. Fish forms of this genus are burrowing fish, so include in its new home a fairly thick bed of fine sand on the bottom of the tank. This will also help it acclimate to its new environment. This is not a "reef safe" fish, for it is known to eat crustaceans and may pick on the soft coral tissue. Also, exercise caution when adding to a community tank for some species of this genus will pick and eat smaller fish. We recommend the Halstead's Razor to aquarist with experience as it may require targeted feedings. To keep it in optimal health, feed it a variety of meaty frozen foods.