Distribution:

Atlantic: in tropical and temperate waters approximately 40°N in the western N. Atlantic, 50°N in the eastern N. Atlantic, 40°S in the western S. Atlantic, and 32°S in the eastern S. Atlantic. Migrating to Mediterranean Sea, mostly based on juvenile specimens. Highly migratory species, Annex I of the 1982 Convention on the Law of the Sea. Some authors recognize a single worldwide species, I. platypterus but we follow Nakamura 1990 retaining the usage of I. platypterus for the Indo-Pacific sailfish and I. albicans for the Atlantic sailfish in recognition of differences between them.

Diagnosis:

Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Dorsal softrays (total): 48-53; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft-rays: 9-12; Vertebrates: 24-24.

Biology:

Usually found in the upper layers of warm water above the thermocline, but also capable of descending to rather deep water. Often migrates into near-shore waters. Occasionally forms schools or smaller groups of 3 to 30 individuals, but often occurs in loose aggregations over a wide area. Feeds mainly on small pelagic fishes but also takes bottom-dwelling organisms. Utilized fresh, canned and frozen; eaten steamed.

Max. size: 315.0 cm

Max.weight: 59 Kg

Environment: pelagic; depth range - 40 m

Climate: subtropical; 21 - 28°C; 50°N - 40°S

Canary Islands country information: Name: Pez Vela