ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

Belon's Swordfish

Tetrapturus belone

Distribution and Habitat

Tetrapturus belone, also known as the Mediterranean Marlin, is a species of marlin in the Istiophoridae family. This fish is found in various regions around the world, including Albania, Algeria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Gibraltar, Greece, Israel, Italy, Lebanon, Libya, Malta, Montenegro, Morocco, Palestine, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Syria, Tunisia, and Turkey. Its presence is uncertain in Portugal, but it is particularly abundant off the coast of Italy.

The species can be found from sea level to great depths.

Description

Tetrapturus belone can grow up to a certain size, with its usual length being approximately 2 meters (6.6 feet). The published maximum weight of this fish is not specified in the provided sources.

Systematics and Taxonomy

The full valid name of this taxon is Tetratturus belone Rafinesque, 1810. This species has several vernacular or standardized names, including Imperial Aguglia, Imbria Auggia, Marlin, Mediterranean Marlin, Pisces-pic.

Commercial Importance and Conservation Status

Tetrapturus belone is of minor commercial interest. The exact conservation status of this species is not specified in the provided sources.

Endemic Region

This species is endemic to Brazil.

Sources:

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