An unexpected scene on Rawson beach has caught the attention of both local residents and marine life specialists: the remains of a large swordfish, exceeding three meters in length., were found in the third canyon of the area known as Bajo Los Huesos. This discovery is unusual in the province of Chubut, where specimens of this species are rarely seen on the shores of the South Atlantic.
The person responsible for the discovery, Marcos Julián Britos, came across the animal while touring the area on a quad bike.. Quickly, images of the enormous stranded fish circulated on social media and raised eyebrows, Not only because of its size but also because of the rarity of finding this predator in such southern latitudes..
Why is the presence of a swordfish on the coast of Chubut so special?
The swordfish (Xiphias gladius) stands out as one of the great hunters of the oceans, recognized by its muscular, fusiform body and the unmistakable "beak" that gives it its name, used for hunting with great efficiency. Usually, It is a species that prefers tropical and temperate waters, being more common in the Mediterranean Sea and in central areas of the Pacific and Atlantic. The presence of one of these specimens on the beaches of southern Argentina It is unusual, which motivates experts to investigate the causes of this phenomenon.
The swordfish is the only representative of the Xiphiidae family., and in Spanish it can also be called swordsman, gladiator, emperor or marrajo. Their presence may be indicative of changes in the marine ecosystem or in migratory patterns, possibly influenced by environmental or climatic factors..
Biological characteristics of the swordfish
With lengths that can exceed four meters and weights of up to 650 kilos, the swordfish is one of the most impressive inhabitants of the ocean. Female specimens tend to be larger and longer-lived than males.. The sword-tailed specimens In regions like the North Pacific, they tend to grow larger than those found in other regions. Their elongated, cylindrical bodies end in a tail that allows them to reach speeds of up to 60 km/h, making them one of the fastest swimmers among fish.
The coloration of this animal ranges from black or brown on its back to light brown on the ventral area.. Curiously, Adults lack scales, while young specimens have small spines on their skin.Its “sword,” a long, toothless beak, allows it to stun and even impale its prey, mainly fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Behavior, habitat and diet
The swordfish is a loner of the ocean, avoiding forming large groups. During the day, usually lives in deep waters, between 500 and 800 meters, and during the night rises to the surface in search of foodThis strategy helps it track the vertical movements of other species, such as squid, on which it actively feeds.
It has the unique ability to selectively heat your eyes and brain., which gives it keen eyesight for hunting even in cold or deep waters. It is ectothermic, depending on external sources of heat, but Thanks to these special organs, it can regulate its internal temperature in certain areas of the body..
Swordfish reproduction occurs at different times of the year depending on the region.Spawning can occur in spring, summer or year-round in equatorial waters, always at temperatures above 20-23 degreesFertilization is external, with millions of eggs released into the water, from which tiny, highly vulnerable larvae emerge.
Threats, conservation and their role in the ecosystem
Despite being a predator with few natural enemies—orcas and sharks may include it in their diet—the greatest threat to the swordfish is human activity.Intensive fishing, both industrial and recreational, is taking place in several areas, especially in the North Atlantic, where it is considered endangered. In other regions, the situation is less critical.
Experts have requested that the specimen found in Rawson be preserved for study., considering that these findings may provide key information about the causes of their death, their physical condition, and whether there are changes in their migratory routes, possibly caused by climate change or alterations in the marine ecosystem.
The discovery off the Chubut coast, far from its usual habitat, has sparked interest not only on social media but also among the scientific community, which seeks to understand potential environmental changes in southern waters. Collaboration between fishermen and experts will be essential to further research into the movements and challenges facing this emblematic marine species.
