The correct spelling of the fish commonly referred to as a "handsaw fish" is actually "Hindostanee garfish". The reason for this spelling discrepancy is due to the fish's origins in India, where it was originally called the "Hindostanee gar" (gar being a type of fish). Over time, the word gar was mispronounced as "saw" by English speaking people, and the name "handsaw fish" stuck. In IPA phonetic transcription, the correct pronunciation would be /ˌhɪndɒstæniː ˈɡɑːfɪʃ/.
The handsaw fish is a unique species of marine fish belonging to the family Serranidae, specifically grouped under the genus Pristiophorus. It is commonly known for its distinct physical characteristics, particularly the elongated, flattened snout resembling a saw, which gives it its name. The body of the handsaw fish is cylindrical and slender, often reaching lengths between 1 to 2 meters. Its coloration can vary, ranging from grayish-brown to a lighter shade.
The defining feature of the handsaw fish is its highly evolved rostrum, or saw-like snout, which is lined with numerous sharp teeth-like spines on both sides. This unique adaptation serves multiple purposes for the fish. Firstly, the saw is used as a sensory organ, enabling the fish to detect its prey buried in the sand or hiding within crevices. Additionally, the saw is employed as a lethal offensive weapon during feeding, enabling the handsaw fish to thrash its snout side to side and impale its prey, usually small fishes or crustaceans, making them easier to consume.
The handsaw fish primarily inhabits the sandy bottoms and coral reefs of tropical and subtropical waters, predominantly in the Indo-Pacific region. It is a nocturnal predator, actively hunting for food during the night. Despite its fearsome appearance, the handsaw fish is typically not aggressive towards humans unless provoked. However, caution is advised when encountering this species due to the potential harm that can be caused by its sharp rostrum.