Sawfish are among the worlds most endangered marine fish, with three species Critically Endangered and largely extinct across much of their historical range.
Rostrum entanglement in fishing gear is the most significant direct welfare harm, as the long tooth-studded saw is extremely prone to catching on any net or line. Entangled sawfish struggle and may drown or suffer injuries. Historical removal from most of their range means remaining populations are isolated and face inbreeding depression. The species is now so rare that any individual death is significant.