Product Description
Swordfish (Xiphias gladius), also known as broadbills in some countries, are large, highly migratory predatory fish characterized by a long, flat, pointed bill. They are a popular sport fish of the billfish category, though elusive. Swordfish are elongated, round-bodied, and lose all teeth and scales by adulthood. These fish are found widely in tropical and temperate parts of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, and can typically be found from near the surface to a depth of 550 m (1,800 ft.), and exceptionally up to depths of 2,234 m. They commonly reach 3 m (10 ft.) in length, and the maximum reported is 4.55 m (14 ft. 11 in) in length and 650 kg (1,430 lb.) in weight. They are the sole member of their family, Xiphiidae
They commonly reach 3 m (10 ft.) in length, and the maximum reported is 4.55 m (14 ft. 11 in) in length and 650 kg (1,430 lb.) in weight. The International Game Fish Association's all-tackle angling record for a swordfish was a 536 kg (1,182 lb.) specimen taken off Chile in 1953. Females are larger than males, and Pacific swordfish reach a greater size than northwest Atlantic and Mediterranean swordfish. They reach maturity at 4–5 years of age and the maximum age is believed to be at least 9 years. The oldest swordfish found in a recent study were a 16-year-old female and 12-year-old male. Swordfish ages are derived, with difficulty, from annual rings on fin rays rather than otoliths, since their otoliths are small in size.
Swordfish are ectothermic animals; however, along with some species of sharks, they have special organs next to their eyes to heat their eyes and brains. Temperatures of 10 to 15 °C (18 to 27 °F) above the surrounding water temperature have been measured. The heating of the eyes greatly improves their vision, and consequently improves their ability to catch prey. Of over 25,000 fish species, only 22 are known to have a mechanism to conserve heat. These include the swordfish, marlin, tuna, and some sharks.
Collectible Wildlife Gifts is the market leader in providing high quality, realistic toys of all types! Every one of our items is heavily inspected for quality craftsmanship and authenticity. Our products make great gifts for your family and friends! Additionally, our lifelike animal figurines and plush make for great displays and educational sets. We are happy to serve our wide range of clientele from parents to educators, gift shop owners and many more!
Our team works hard to ensure you get a great toy. All products from CWG are checked for quality to ensure you receive the order in perfect condition.
From plush sharks to educational animal growths cycle we offer the perfect toy or gift for any occasion. Our products have been ordered by educational groups, aquariums, zoos, and more.
Great customer service is guaranteed when you order from Collectible Wildlife Gifts, we want you to love your toy and have a simple ordering process, we are happy to assist with inquiries!