Growing up a Swordfish

“We see a lot of strange larval fishes that would be otherwise recognizable as adults. Take, for example, these swordfish separated by probably two years of growth. As young, their bills are almost like delicate filaments hanging off their faces. They are a fascinating curiosity. Adults are far more formidable. Two weeks after the adult fish was photographed, a swordfish speared a fisherman in the local harbor. Years later, the next adult swordfish that I encountered was both blinded by and attracted to our dive lights. I have never felt so helpless in the face of piercing fury. Funny how the same species can elicit such different emotions.” –Jeffrey Milisen