International Sawfish Day: Celebrating the Conservation of this Saw-some Species!

Established in 2017, International Sawfish Day occurs every October 17th and is a day dedicated to bringing awareness to this unique species and promoting conservation efforts to ensure its survival for generations to come. 

Never Saw Such a Thing?

What strikes you first about the sawfish? Its namesake saw-shaped rostrum, of course!

The saw on a sawfish contains between 21 and 30 unpaired teeth on its rostrum, and this distinct feature serves several purposes. The sawfish primarily uses this appendage to hunt—but it’s not just a simple slash attack.

Believe it or Not!, the sawfish’s saw is equipped with thousands of tiny pores that can detect electrical fields that let the sawfish know when prey is nearby. At that moment, the sawfish will swipe its saw laterally to secure its dinner. 

So not only does a sawfish’s saw contain rows of pointy teeth, but it also has a "sixth" sense when prey is in the area! 

Saw -some History

So while sawfish are one of nature’s more novel species, they also hold strong cultural significance in different corners of the globe!

In Australia, certain Aboriginal clans view the sawfish as the vessel by which supernatural beings created the lands on which they live.

The Kuna, an Indigenous people in the Caribbean, believe that the sawfish is mankind’s protector and can save people from drowning! 

But Wait, Shark or Fish?

There’s understandable confusion about the difference between sawsharks and sawfish, and although they are very similar, they do possess distinct differences. While sawsharks have gills on the side of their heads, like sharks, sawfish are closer to the ray family, with gills on their underside. 

The biggest difference between them? Sawsharks are on the IUCN list as a species of least concern, while the five species of sawfish are listed as either critically endangered or endangered.

Their dwindling numbers globally can be attributed to the length it takes the sawfish to reach maturity and low reproductive capacity, along with overfishing of their habitats. Given their toothy nature, sawfish are prone to being caught in commercial fishing nets. 

Say You Saw Them

Ripley’s Aquariums has partnered with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to promote the conservation and survival of these wonderful creatures.

Looking to participate in International Sawfish Day? The Sawfish Conservation Society has a number of ways to get involved in promoting the conservation and protection of one of the most unique species in our waterways. 

Want to see our amazing sawfish up close and personal? Visit Ripley's Aquairum and take a dive into the deep blue!