The IUCN assesses various factors when determining the conservation status of a species, including population trends, habitat loss, hunting and exploitation, and other threats. For the swordfish, these factors have contributed to its vulnerable status:
1. Overfishing: Swordfish is a popular target for commercial fishing due to its high market value. Overfishing has led to significant declines in swordfish populations in many areas.
2. Bycatch: Swordfish are often caught as bycatch in fisheries targeting other species. Bycatch can cause unintended mortality of swordfish and disrupt their populations.
3. Habitat degradation: Swordfish rely on healthy marine habitats for breeding, feeding, and migration. However, habitat degradation, such as pollution, coastal development, and climate change, affects these habitats and can negatively impact swordfish populations.
4. Slow growth and low reproductive rates: Swordfish have a relatively slow growth rate and low reproductive rates, making their populations more vulnerable to depletion and slower to recover from declines.
Given the vulnerable status of swordfish, conservation measures are necessary to protect and manage swordfish populations. These may include implementing fishing quotas, limiting bycatch, protecting critical habitats, and promoting sustainable fishing practices.