Xyrichtys trivittatus is described as a new species of razorfish from 1 male specimen from Hong Kong and 1 male specimen from Taiwan. It is distinct in having the 1st 2 dorsal spines separated by a notch in the membrane, the spines not higher than the longest dorsal rays; a broad column of small scales extending ventrally from the eye to below the corner of the mouth; 15-16 gill rakers; and 3 blackish bars on the upper half of the body.