Today’s MOOD: Atlantic Sailfish Atlantic sailfish
Istiophorus albicans
Large billfish with a tall, sail-like dorsal fin. Fast-swimmers, they can reach speeds of over 90km (60 miles) per hour. Statistics
They are 2.4m (8ft) in length and weigh approximately 58kg. Physical Description
They are characterized by a large, sail-like dorsal fin with long central rays and a spotted, purple-blue membrane. The sides of the body are flat and the upper bill is long and thin like that of a swordfish. Sailfish are blue-black above, with a white belly. They have about 20 vertical stripes - formed by numerous bright blue spots along the sides of the body. Distribution
They inhabit the Atlantic ocean and migrate to the Mediterranean sea. Habitat
These pelagic, open-water fish are usually found in the upper ocean layers to depths of around 40m (130ft). Diet
Sailfish maim or stun their prey with rapid strokes of the bill, and then scoop it up with toothless jaws. They open their dorsal fin when hunting, perhaps to help herd prey. They typically feed on pelagic fish and squid, but will also take bottom-dwelling animals. Behavior
During feeding, changes in body color occur - the gill cover, pectoral fins and flanks turn bright blue. The stripes on the flanks also appear to glow. They are one of the fastest fish and have been clocked at 90km (60 miles) per hour. They fold away the 'sail' in a groove on the back during fast swimming. Sailfish occasionally form schools of 3-30 individuals, but often occur in loose groups over a wide area. Reproduction
Sailfish spawn throughout the year in warm, surface waters. Females release up to 5 million eggs per batch. The pelagic larvae hatch in around 36 hours. Conservation status
Atlantic sailfish are not considered to be endangered. Notes
The classification of sailfish varies. Some scientists recognize just one species of sailfish, Istiophorus platypterus, whereas others divide them into numerous species. Question: Why it is necessary for sailfish to stun their prey before eating it? _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Marine Biology – Mr. Micciche	Today’s Date: ______________