Istiophorus platypterus

Sailfish

2.4-3.4 metros
4-5 anos
Pouco preocupante
Sobre

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.

Tamanho

2.4-3.4 metros

Peso

25-100 kg

Expectativa de vida

4-5 anos

Estado

Pouco preocupante

Onde encontrá-los

Melhores locais de mergulho

Isla Mujeres, MéxicoCabo San Lucas, MéxicoPacific Coast Of MéxicoGuatemalaCosta RicaSardine Run, África do Sul

Dicas de mergulho

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.

Melhor época

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)

Alimentação

Small schooling fish (sardines, anchovies, mackerel), squid, and crustaceans
Você sabia?

Curiosidades

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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