Swordfish are usually found in tropical and temperate Pacific waters; in British Columbia only two other documented sightings have been recorded, both far south of Haida Gwaii.

Isabella Morgante, a PhD student at the University of British Columbia’s Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, said the find is highly unusual but fits a growing pattern of tropical species moving north as ocean temperatures rise.

A recent analysis led by UBC researchers confirmed that warming oceans are causing unexpected species distributions along the BC coastline, with several traditionally southern fish now appearing farther north.

Morgante also noted that the current El Niño year brings higher sea‑surface temperatures in the Pacific, amplifying the warming trend that encourages species like swordfish to seek cooler waters further north.

These shifts matter for local fishers and coastal communities because they signal broader ecological changes; more tropical species could alter food webs, fishing opportunities, and the overall health of marine ecosystems.