The Sailfish

The Sailfish belongs to the Istiophoridae family. The maximum size of the sailfish is 340 cm in total length and about 100 kg. The average life span of 4 years. Spawning usually takes place in summer. It can be fished all year round.
The upper jaw is modified into a long beak with a circular cross-section. The upper jaw is about twice the length of the lower jaw. Two dorsal and anal fins are present. The first dorsal fin is large, much higher than the width of the body. This large fin extends almost the entire length of the body, the longest radius being the 20th. The first anal fin is very far from the body. The second dorsal and anal fins are approximately similar in size and shape. Both are short and concave. The pectoral and pelvic fins are long. Pelvic fins are almost twice as long and almost reach the origin of the first anal fin. Pelvic fins have a spinal column and several fused soft rays. A pair of grooves extend along the ventral surface of the body into which the pelvic fins can be inserted. The caudal peduncle has double pins and caudal notches on the upper and lower surfaces. The lateral line is easily visible. The body color varies according to the level of excitement. The body is dark blue on the back and white with brown spots on the belly. About 20 bars, each composed of many light blue dots, are present on each side. The fins are generally blackish blue. The base of the anal fin is white. The first dorsal fin contains many small black spots, which are more