Smalltooth Sawfish
Pristis pectinata
- Group: Ray
- Typical depth: 10–88 m
- Max size: 7.6 m
- For divers: dangerous
- IUCN status: CR
A ray shaped like a shark, it carries a long flat blade lined with paired teeth that it swings to stun and pin fish and shellfish. It works the shallows of bays, estuaries and river mouths and will move up into fresh water, tolerating it well. Once widespread, it has been so reduced by fishing and lost habitat that it is now critically endangered, and the saw can injure a careless handler.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Elasmobranchii › Rhinopristiformes › Pristidae › Pristis
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 105848.
FAQ
- How deep does the Smalltooth Sawfish live?
- The Smalltooth Sawfish (Pristis pectinata) is typically found at 10–88 m.
- Is the Smalltooth Sawfish dangerous to divers?
- The Smalltooth Sawfish can be dangerous; divers should keep their distance.
- How big does the Smalltooth Sawfish get?
- The Smalltooth Sawfish grows to about 7.6 m.