Sailfish

Introduction: Sailfish (Istiophorus platypterus) have a distinctive long, spear-like snout as well as an obvious sail-like dorsal fin that when raised forms a high crest which runs along most of the length of the body. They are an ocean-going fish that are usually found near land masses. Istiophorus means 'to bear a sail' and platypterus 'flat wings'.

Distribution: The coastal waters of Namibia including the length of the Skeleton Coast, Dorob National Park, Swakopmundand Walvis Baythe Namib Desertand Luderitz.

Diet: Small tuna, mullet, anchovies and mackerel, squid and cuttlefish. Prey is often herded into a dense, round shoal when they show a great turn of speed as swim and leap in and out of the water.

Colouration: Metallic-blue body with a cobalt-blue sail decorated with black markings.

Breeding: The main breeding season is during the summer months once adults have reached 3 years of age and 150cm.

Max size: 300cm

Max weight: 65kg