Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata Class: Actinopterygii Order: Perciformes Family: Istiophoridae Genus: Istiophorus Species: Sailfish |
Symmetry: Bilateral
Structure: Large dorsal fin that runs the length of the body, forked tail fin, color changes based on excitement level, weight up to 58 kg, upper jaw modified into a longer sword-like spear Adaptations: The sailfish can press its pelvic fins into it's sides to reduce drag and be able to swim faster. The sailfish is the fastest recorded swimmer. The elongated sword-like nose aids in catching prey. Ecological Importance: Economical Importance: Recreational fishermen fish for this species. Fun Facts 1: Swims at speeds up to 68 mph 2: Females are generally larger than males 3: Live up to 4 years 4: weight 200 pounds 5: can reach a length of 10 feet Vocab Dorsal fin: Fin on the top of the body that does not have a pair. Pelvic fin: Fins found in pairs on the underside of the body Anal fin: Fin on the underside of the body that is unpaired. Spawning: Leaving large quantities of eggs in the water Bycatch: Part of fishing when you catch a non-targeted species Resources: http://www.arkive.org/atlantic-sailfish/istiophorus-albicans/ http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/Gallery/Descript/sailfish/sailfish.html http://oceana.org/en/explore/marine-wildlife/atlantic-sailfish |