Consumption of this species is considered unsustainable, as stocks are under pressure from over-fishing and the capture of a large number of juveniles. The recent abolishment of a minimum legal landing size has filled the Greek market with undersized unsustainable fish, increasing the pressure on this overexploited species. A loophole in the law allows swordfish to be caught and sold from international waters legally all year round, however those caught illegally may be sold under this guise, so if consumed, it is important to avoid purchase during the prohibited season. Due to ineffective legislation that does not take into account the species biology, the legal size of this fish is substantially lower than the sustainable size. This makes it particularly important to respect the sustainable size shown.

Can accumulate dangerously high levels of mercury and other heavy metals in the flesh, higher than safe levels set by international regulations. This can be especially harmful for pregnant and lactating women, and young children. Do not consume regulary. There habe been reports of ciguatera poisoning in different regions. Cooking the meat may reduce mercury levels by up to 30%.

Blackish-brown fading to light-brown below; 1st dorsal fin with blackish-brown membrane, other fins brown or blackish-brown. A long, flat, sword-like bill and no pelvic fins. Elongated bodyshape. Adults have two widely separated dorsal and anal fins, and a crescent-shaped caudal (tail) fin. Pelvic fins are absent in adults. Marlins & sailfish: they have a more rounded, spear-like rostrum and possess a long dorsal fin that runs most of the length of their body, resembling a sail. While all have a bill, swordfish’s is flat and sword-like, while marlins and sailfish have a more rounded, spear-like bill.

They have a muscle in their eyes that allows them to literally heat their brains and eyes making it possible for swordfish to see their prey and think clearly in colder waters!