Pristis microdon, commonly known as the smalltooth sawfish, is a critically endangered species of sawfish found in the Indo-Pacific region. It is a large fish, reaching a maximum size of 700.0 cm in length, and is known for its distinctive, long, saw-like rostrum, which is lined with teeth. Pristis microdon typically inhabits shallow coastal waters, with a depth range of 0.0 to 10.0 meters, making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
Pristis microdon is easily recognizable by its long, flattened rostrum, which is lined with sharp teeth. The rostrum is used for digging in the sediment, stunning prey, and defense. The body is streamlined and torpedo-shaped, with a dorsal fin located towards the rear of the body. Pristis microdon has a gray to brown coloration, with lighter undersides.
Habitat and Occurrence
Pristis microdon is a widely distributed species, found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Its geographic range extends from the Red Sea and East Africa to Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Indonesia, and Australia. This species is often found in shallow, inshore waters, including estuaries, mangroves, and coastal reefs. It prefers areas with sandy or muddy bottoms, where it can use its rostrum to dig for food.
Taxonomy
Pristis microdon is classified within the Class: Elasmobranchii, Order: Rhinopristiformes, and Family: Pristidae. It is part of the sawfish family, which includes other species known for their saw-like rostrums.
Feeding
Pristis microdon is a carnivorous fish that feeds primarily on small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. It uses its saw-like rostrum to stun and kill prey, and then uses its teeth to tear off pieces of flesh. It is a bottom feeder and is known for its unique hunting strategy, where it uses its rostrum to dig in the sediment to locate and capture prey.
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