Smalltooth Sawfish
( Pristis pectinata
)
Adults are found in the same habitat, but they also range offshore at depths up to 400 feet.
The Smalltooth Sawfish is a species of sawfish found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This tannish-brown fish can reach a total length of up to 18 ft (5.5 m) and weigh up to 700l bs (320 kg). Though the Smalltooth Sawfish look similar to sharks, they are actually more related to rays.
The Smalltooth Sawfish is named after their very unique long and flat saw like rostrum. Smalltooth Sawfish use their long rostrum for both locating prey and immobilizing prey. The rostrum is covered with special sensors that help these fish detect prey in the low visibility of coastal waters by sensing the electric field created by its prey. After locating prey, Smalltooth Sawfish shake their heads from side to side, injuring or stunning the prey and making them easier to capture. Although the rostrum is mostly used for hunting purposes, observations of sawfish in captivity have shown that they can also be used for self-defense.
The rostrum is a vital part of the Smalltooth Sawfish survival, but sadly it has played a large role in its population collapse. The rostrum is easily caught in fishnets of both accidental and purposeful fisherman. Entanglement in fishing nets has been the main reason for this species' decline of 95% in the 20th Century. For these and other factors the IUCN has listed the Smalltooth Sawfish as critically endangered.
To learn more about the Atlantic Sawfish and Conservation efforts click the link below: