Shortbill Spearfish

Shortbill spearfish

Characteristics

The Shortbill Spearfish is one of the smallest and poorly known species of billfishes. Its occurrence in shallow south coast waters is a very rare event. A dark black band extends across the top of the fish with a silver-white colour below. The dorsal and ventral fins are almost black and the anal fins are a white colour. The inner surfaces of the caudal and pectoral fins are black and the outer surface is white.

Size

Maximum length of around 2 m.

Distribution

In Australia, the species has only ever been recorded off Perth (WA), Port Stephens (NSW) and Adelaide (SA). It is rarely seen in coastal waters as it prefers oceanic conditions.

Confusing species

Can be confused with other marlin and swordfish species.