Pristis
Pristis is a genus of rays known commonly as sawfish. They are characterized by a long, flattened rostrum, or snout, lined with sharp teeth, resembling a saw. Sawfish are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, inhabiting both freshwater and saltwater environments. They are important predators in their ecosystems, playing a role in maintaining the balance of marine food webs.
Common Names
Sawfish are known by various common names, including:
- Sawfish
- Sawshark
- Sawfish ray
Characteristics
Sawfish are characterized by their distinctive saw-like rostrum, which they use for hunting, defense, and digging in sediment. They have a flattened body shape and large pectoral fins, which they use for propulsion. They also have a pair of dorsal fins, a caudal fin, and ventral fins.
Sawfish can grow to significant sizes, with some species reaching over 7 meters in length. They are typically found in coastal waters, estuaries, and rivers. They are carnivores, feeding on a variety of fish, crustaceans, and other marine animals.
Environments
Sawfish are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They are commonly found in coastal waters, estuaries, and rivers, particularly in areas with muddy or sandy bottoms. Sawfish are known to tolerate a wide range of salinity levels, allowing them to move freely between saltwater and freshwater environments.
Conservation Status
Sawfish are facing a number of threats, including overfishing, habitat destruction, and accidental capture in fishing gear. All species of sawfish are listed as critically endangered or endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The rostrum of sawfish is often targeted for use in traditional medicine and as souvenirs, contributing to their decline. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect sawfish populations, including the establishment of marine protected areas and the implementation of sustainable fishing practices.