Marine Life

Indo-Pacific sailfish

Fangandu hibaru

Istiophorus platypterus

The Sailfish (Istiophorus platypterus) is the most commonly seen of the billfishes, and is distinct from other species in that it is more commonly found in and around atolls. It is often caught and sold at Malé fish market, and was previously classified under the family Istiophoridae.

Details

§ 01

size: Common to 2.7 m; max. 3.2 m
color: Dark blue dorsally, pale ventrally. About 20 pale spotted stripes on sides. Sail deep blue with dark spots.
order: Perciformes
family: Xiphidae
image url: https://assets.explore.mv/fishes/istiophorus-platypterus.png
habitat and biology: This species is found in the oceanic environment, inhabiting the upper layers of the water column and exhibiting a migratory behavior. It feeds on a wide range of fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.
distinctive characters: This species has a long-based sail-like dorsal fin with 42-49 rays, a small second dorsal fin with 6 or 7 rays, two anal fins, the first with 12-17 rays and the second with 6-7 rays, a pectoral fin with 18-20 rays, a body that is compressed laterally, and very long pelvic fins. Its body is covered by embedded scales.