Essential habitat of smalltooth sawfish (Pristis pectinata).

Abstract

The smalltooth sawfish is one of seven species known worldwide. Throughout its range populations have been substantially reduced, listing the worldwide population as endangered. Despite its widespread occurrence, the smalltooth sawfish has been poorly studied and information on the critical habitat elements is almost non-existent in the literature. In response to the need for data, Mote Marine Laboratory (MML) began an ongoing research project in 1999, which includes documenting the distribution, abundance, movements, habitat utilization, genetics and population dynamics of the smalltooth sawfish. In December 1999, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) was petitioned to place the smalltooth and largetooth sawfish on the Endangered Species List (ESL). The process of listing an endangered species often involves designating a Critical Habitat for the species. This document examines the essential habitat elements for smalltooth sawfish, with the aim of using these data to designate critical habitat. This analysis draws largely on the results of the MML sawfish research project. The report first outlines the sources of data, and then examines each of the important habitat elements identified. The analysis is based on the best available information.