Indo-Pacific sailfish

Boohoo
Photo Credit: © Diane Rome Peebles
Family Billfishes
Scientific Family Istiophoridae
Scientific Name Istiophorus platypterus
Spanish Name Aguja de abanico
ITIS# 172488
Tail shape Lunate

Colour of back dark with about 20 bluish vertical bars; belly pale silver; membrane of first dorsal fin blue- black with numerous dark spots; bases of first and second anal fins often tinged with silvery white; remaining fins blackish brown or dark blue.


Biology

Found in oceanic and near surface waters, usually found above the thermocline (the line that separates surface waters from calm, cold deep water). Most densely distributed in waters close to coasts and islands. Most likely schools by size. Undergoes spawning migrations in the Pacific. Feeds mainly on fishes, crustaceans and cephalopods.

Appearance

Body Shape
Fusiform
Color
Main Color: Blue-black
Other Color: silver
Common Body Shape
Torpedo-shaped


Pattern
None
Length
Avg Length: 108 inches (270 cm)
Max Length: 139 inches (348 cm)
Maximum Weight
220.7 lbs (100240 g)




Specifications

Handling Concerns
Harmless
Conservation Concerns
None
Range in USA
NY-TX


Abundance
Less Common


Other Species from same Family