The Swordfish or Xiphias gladius is one of the most well known fish in the ocean due to its strange appearance. Its long flat bill looks much like a sword coming out of its head, hence its name. These fish are quite large reaching sizes of 15' or 4-1/2 meters! The largest Swordfish ever caught weighed in at an amazing 1,182 lb (536.15 kg)!Most people might think that their "sword" is used to impale or spear its prey, but they actually use their "sword" to slash at its prey, normally injuring them and making them defenseless. They can also use their "sword" to protect themselves from the few creatures that can attack them.
These fish are very fast, not quite as fast as the Sailfish which are the fastest fish in the ocean, but they can reach speeds of up to 50 mph!Even though the swordfish is a cold blooded creature they have organs next to their eyes that actually heat their eyes and brain! This heat helps improve their vision and makes them all the more dangerous of a predator.
Also known as Broadbill in places around the world, the Swordfish are often kept as a trophy fish and are also quite tasty. If can see for yourself by purchasing Swordfish shipped to your door! Just click the small picture directly below...
To check out the Swordfish in action watch the video below. If you have an additional information about the Swordfish that you would like to share please do so in the comments.
The top picture is a Black Marlin, not a Sailfish.
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