Billfish
Sailfish
Istiophorus platypterus
SaltwaterIstiophoridaeVulnerable
About
Sailfish are characterized by their prominent sail-like dorsal fin, which stretches nearly the entire length of their body. They are among the fastest fish in the ocean, using their streamlined bodies and powerful tails to reach incredible speeds, often hunting in groups to herd prey.
- Average size
- 7-11 feet, 120-220 pounds
- Colors
- Dark blue on top, brownish-blue laterally, and silvery white underneath. They have about 20 bars composed of spots along their sides.
- Diet
- Primarily smaller fish, crustaceans, and squid.
- Region
- Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, including the waters off Florida, the Gulf Coast, and Southern California.
