Swordfish, a large marine fish of tropical and temperate waters throughout the world. It is also called broadbill or broadbill swordfish. In appearance the swordfish resembles the sailfish and marlin but has a smaller dorsal fin (or sail), a flattened rather than round bill (or sword), and no scales or pelvic fins.Swordfish slice through water at up to 60 miles an hour.
Depending on the individual fish, the back and sides are brownish to black, the underparts whitish. Swordfish can weigh more than 1,000 pounds (450 kg), but the average weight is from 150 to 250 pounds (68 to 113 kg). Average length is about 7 feet (2.1 m); some reach 15 feet (4.6 m). Up to one-third of the length may be taken up by the sword—the sharp, flattened extension of the upper jaw. A newly hatched swordfish has teeth but no sword. Eventually the teeth disappear and the upper jaw lengthens into the sword.
The swordfish is a fast swimmer and can make powerful leaps. It feeds mainly on other fish and squid. When it encounters a school of fish it kills or stuns its prey by slashing about with its sword.
The swordfish is an important food fish and thousands of tons are taken annually by commercial fishermen. Japan accounts for about one-fourth of the world catch. Other leading countries are Spain, the United States, Italy, the Philippines, and Mexico. Because the swordfish can slash its way out of nets, most of the commercial fishing is done by harpooning or by setting out lures on lines. Fishing for swordfish with rod and reel is a popular sport.
A swordfish has a long, flat upper jaw that looks like a sword. Scientists believe it may use its sword to break up groups of fish. Then the swordfish can attack the fish one at a time. The swordfish may also use its sword as an aid in swimming. The sword breaks the flow of water, making it easier for the sword fish to swim.
Swordfish are found in warm ocean waters. They are one of the fastest kinds of fish. They can slice through water up to 60 miles (97 kilometers) an hour.
The sword on a swordfish is about one-third as long as its body. Most swordfish are 5 to 8 feet (1.5 to 2.4 meters) long. They weigh about 150 to 300 pounds (70 to 135 kilograms).
The swordfish is Xiphias gladius. It is the only member of the family Xiphiidae.