Istiophorus platypterus

Sailfish

2.4-3.4 metri
4-5 anni
Minima preoccupazione
Informazioni

Sailfish

The sailfish is the fastest fish in the ocean, capable of speeds exceeding 110 km/h. Its enormous dorsal fin — the 'sail' — can be raised or lowered and is used to herd schools of baitfish. Off Mexico's Pacific coast and the Yucatán Peninsula, sailfish hunting events create some of the most spectacular underwater action on Earth, as groups of sailfish cooperate to corral sardine balls, slashing through them with their bills.

Dimensioni

2.4-3.4 metri

Peso

25-100 kg

Durata della vita

4-5 anni

Stato

Minima preoccupazione

Dove trovarli

Migliori siti di immersione

Isla Mujeres, MessicoCabo San Lucas, MessicoPacific Coast Of MessicoGuatemalaCosta RicaSardine Run, Sudafrica

Consigli per le immersioni

Sailfish encounters are done by snorkelling, not scuba diving. A spotter plane or boat locates bait balls, then snorkellers drop in ahead of the action. Move slowly, stay on the surface, and keep your fins below you. The action is fast and furious — sailfish can appear and disappear in seconds. Experienced guides are essential.

Stagione migliore

December to March (Isla Mujeres sardine run), year-round off Pacific coast

Habitat

Tropical and subtropical open waters worldwide. In Mexico: Pacific coast (Cabo San Lucas) and Caribbean (Isla Mujeres)

Alimentazione

Small schooling fish (sardines, anchovies, mackerel), squid, and crustaceans
Lo sapevi?

Curiosità

1

Sailfish can reach speeds of 110 km/h, making them the fastest fish in the ocean

2

They change colour rapidly when excited — flashing electric blues, purples, and silvers

3

Groups of sailfish cooperate to herd baitfish, taking turns to slash through the school

4

Their bill is used for slashing, not spearing — they stun prey by whipping it sideways

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