Pristis clavata
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The dwarf sawfish faces severe population declines primarily due to fishing pressure, both as targeted catch and bycatch in commercial and artisanal fisheries throughout its Indo-Pacific range. Habitat degradation from coastal development, pollution, and sedimentation has reduced the quality of shallow marine and estuarine nursery areas critical for juvenile survival. The species' slow growth rate, late maturity, and low reproductive output make recovery extremely difficult once populations are depleted.
Habitat
The dwarf sawfish inhabits shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and river mouths across the Indo-Pacific region, typically in depths less than 40 meters. Juveniles rely heavily on protected inshore nursery areas with soft substrates where they can forage for small fish and invertebrates.
