The Paleontology of Billfish - The State of the Art

Harry L. Fierstine, California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo

Abstract

The major osteological features are described for living billfishes. All billfish remains are reviewed critically and some questionable forms are placed in Xiphioidei Incertae Sedis (uncertain status). The remaining xiphioids are placed into three families: Istiophoridae, Xiphiidae, and Xiphiorhynchidae. A new undescribed xiphiid from Mississippi shows that the billfish lineages must have diverged prior to the Eocene. Areas of research are suggested that will help place the paleontological studies on a more secure foundation.