The Xiphiformes are an order of fish containing the bill fish and sail fish. These fish present a thuniform swimming in which only the back tail of the fish moves. This semilunate tail is very large and able to move large amounts of water and push the fish forward quickly. In addition to this, their vertebral column is unable to bend. The large bill on the front of their snout serves a dual purpose of aiding in forging as well as navigating through the water effectively. This bill is a modified upper jaw and is covered in tiny teeth like structures. Many Xiphiformes have a large sail which is able to be raised and lowered quickly. This sail may be used to heard prey, making them easier to hunt, as well as aiding in navigation in water and allowing the fish to turn easier. During hunts, sailfish may even change color. This is thought to be a method if signalling other fish.
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