📌 Introduction
If you’ve ever gone snorkeling in the Andaman Sea and caught a glimpse of a shimmering silver sliver floating upright near coral, you may have seen one of the reef’s most elusive creatures — the razor fish.
Also known as shrimpfish, these slender, transparent fish swim vertically — head down, tail up — making them look more like floating leaves or blades than living animals. They are one of the most fascinating species you can encounter while snorkeling in Thailand’s coral gardens.
Table of Contents
🐠 What Is a Razor Fish?
Scientific name: Aeoliscus strigatus
Common names: razor fish, shrimpfish, coral shrimpfish
Razor fish are small, vertical-swimming reef fish known for their:
- Transparent, blade-like bodies
- Unusual posture: head-down, tail-up swimming
- Group behavior: tight, synchronized schools
- Preferred habitat: hiding near staghorn coral, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers
They typically grow to 10–15 cm in length and are rarely noticed unless you’re looking carefully.
🌊 Where Can You See Razor Fish in the Andaman Sea?
You might spot them while snorkeling at:
- Surin Islands – especially Ao Bon & Ao Suthep
- Similan Islands – Island No. 9 (Ko Ba Ngu)
- Maiton Island – eastern reef zone
- Bamboo Island – western coral patches in calm waters
🔍 Tip: Look closely around vertical corals and motionless shadowy shapes — razor fish don’t dart, they drift like living twigs.
📷 Why Do Razor Fish Swim Vertically?
Their odd orientation is part of an evolutionary survival strategy. Vertical swimming helps them:
- Camouflage within vertical reef structures
- Blend into sea urchins and coral branches
- Confuse predators used to chasing horizontal prey
- Maintain balance in coral channels with shifting currents
They’re the stealth submarines of the shallow reef — delicate, quiet, and effective.
🤝 Symbiotic Camouflage: How Razor Fish Use Other Creatures
Razor fish are experts in “borrowed camouflage.” You’ll often find them hovering near:
- Sea urchins for protection
- Sea cucumbers that serve as moving shields
- Staghorn coral which visually aligns with their upright bodies
Scientists describe this as protective mimicry — a strategy where animals hide by mimicking their surroundings or neighboring species. Razor fish even reposition themselves when their “host” animals move.
🧠 Why Razor Fish Matter to Coral Ecosystems
These little fish play important roles:
- Control zooplankton populations
- Serve as bioindicators of reef health — they only live in undisturbed habitats
- Add biodiversity and beauty to the ecosystem
Seeing razor fish while snorkeling often means you’re in a truly healthy reef.
✅ How to Spot Razor Fish (Without Scaring Them)
To increase your chances:
- Swim slowly and calmly
- Avoid sudden movements or splashing
- Keep your body horizontal and reduce shadows
- Look for vertical, silver lines grouped tightly
The more respectfully you snorkel, the more life reveals itself.
❓ Razor Fish Q&A
Q: Is vertical swimming a deformity?
A: Not at all — it’s a natural adaptation for stealth and survival.
Q: Can I see them easily?
A: They’re elusive but often found in the right spots with experienced guides.
Q: Are they dangerous?
A: No — they’re shy, gentle reef dwellers.
🌿 Responsible Snorkeling = Razor Fish Encounters
Razor fish thrive in quiet, protected areas. Here’s how to help:
- Join eco friendly island tours
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Never touch coral or marine life
- Support tour operators that respect marine parks
📞 Explore the Andaman with Love Andaman
Want a chance to see razor fish in the wild? Travel with us to the best reef zones:
👉 Surin Islands Snorkeling & Moken Village Tour
👉 Similan Islands Snorkeling Tour
👉 Eco Friendly Island Tours
Follow us for more underwater stories:
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