Introduction
The Shortbill Spearfish (Tetrapturus angustirostris) is a species of billfish belonging to the family Istiophoridae.
Conservation Status
As of the majority of marlinesque species, the Shortbill Spearfish is labelled as a ‘Data Deficient’ species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Conservation efforts from many organizations worldwide aim at collecting more data and implementing protective measures to secure the species’ survival.
Statistics
| Average Length | Range Length | Average Weight | Range Weight | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 cm | 180 cm - 250 cm | 38 kg | 30 kg – 50 kg | 5-8 years |
Distribution
The Shortbill Spearfish can be found in tropical and temperate waters of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, including the Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas. They display complex migration patterns linking to water temperature changes and food availability.
Habitats
Shortbill Spearfish can adjust to a variety of marine environments, yet they seem to prefer warm surface waters (between 22-28°C). The species can also be observed in depths ranging from 0 to 200 meters.
When and Where to See
These species are more frequently sighted during the summer months, and often during the middle hours of the day when the sunlight is most intense.
Best Fishing Locations
Some of the top locations for Shortbill Spearfish includes:
- Florida Keys, Florida, USA
- Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
- Canary Islands, Spain
- Madeira, Portugal
- Hawaii, USA
How to Catch
Shortbill Spearfish are typically caught by sport fishermen using trolling methods with either live or artificial baits. The best fishing times are in the summer months during the midday hours.
Identification Guide
Shortbill Spearfish have a slim, dark blue body with a silver-white belly. Their dorsal fin is tall, dark blue, and their pectoral fins are relatively short and bright blue. They can be distinguished from other similar species by their shorter bill and a broader, less curved lateral line.
Culinary Information
Shortbill Spearfish are considered a delicacy in some parts of the world. The flesh is firm and flavorful, making it suitable for a variety of cooking methods including grilling and baking. Due to their size, they’re often cut into steaks or fillets.
Additional Information
Shortbill Spearfish are active predators, primarily feeding on smaller fishes and squids. There are no specific human-induced threats, however, these fish are still vulnerable to overfishing and habitat degradation. In cultural terms, the Shortbill Spearfish plays a significant role in many fishing communities, contributing to local tourism and sport fishing industries.
References and Further Reading
- NOAA Fisheries – Shortbill Spearfish
- Florida Museum – Shortbill Spearfish
- Fishbase – Shortbill Spearfish