Australian Authorities Investigate the Killing of Critically Endangered Sawfish; Calls for Better Protection for the Threatened Species

Authorities in Western Australia are investigating the reported killing of four sawfish found dead in Cleaverville Creek. According to ABC News, the dead animals were found with their distinct saw-like rostrums removed. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) officers measured the sawfish and obtained tissue samples to be investigated in the laboratory.

DPIRD got the news after receiving a tip-off from the public. The agency confirms that the carcasses were discovered near Karratha on May 12, 2023.

Experts have not yet confirmed the exact species of the fish. Still, they are more likely members of green sawfish, as reported by aquatic ecosystem expert Professor David Morgan from Murdoch University in Perth. These sawfish species are usually killed for their saw to be used as trophies, sticking them on walls like elephant tusks and rhinoceros horns.

This act is not only illegal, but it is also cruel. DPIRD confirms that the people responsible for the death of four sawfish must pay a fine worth $16,700.

Finding Shelter in Western Australia

Professor Morgan believes that sawfish were once abundant in African and Asian seas. As their population declined, they found Western Australia as their last stronghold. The regions of Pilbara, Kimberley, and Gascoyne are potential hotspots for this animal, where four of five species of sawfish thrive.
Professor Morgan has dedicated 20 years to protecting the critical sawfish and their habitat. Upon receiving the news about the dead sawfish, he expressed his disappointment because awareness about sawfish has improved over the past years.

"I was hoping we'd woken up to the fact that we are housing these critically endangered species," Professor Morgan said.

Predatory Fish Under Threat

Sawfish, also known as carpenter sharks, are a group of flattened marine fish that belong to a family of batoids. Although they are famous for their shark-like form and swimming style, these predatory fish are rays. They are best known for their elongate blade-like rostrum or saw with rostral teeth placed laterally into sockets. They feed mainly on bottom-dwelling invertebrates such as crabs and shrimps.

Five recognized species of sawfish are still alive today, and they are found to thrive in tropical and subtropical regions. Although they are found worldwide, they are more abundant in Florida and Australia. According to the Australian Marine Conservation Society, three species in the country are classified under threatened status under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).

Habitat change is one of the major causes of population decline among sawfish. In some cases, sawfish are at risk of being caught unintentionally by fishermen as bycatch. This is particularly common in Northern Australia during commercial fishing season. Aside from entanglement in fishing gear, sawfish populations are declining due to overharvesting.

In Western Australia, authorities protect all sawfish from recreational and commercial fishing under State legislation. Exporting sawfish and products is also banned under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

Check out more news and information on Sawfish in Science Times.