Atlantic white marlin

White marlin
Photo Credit: CCA 2.0 Dominic Sherony
Family Billfishes
Scientific Family Istiophoridae
Scientific Name Kajikia albida
Spanish Name Aguja blanca
ITIS# 768126
Tail shape Lunate

Blue-black above, silvery white and splattered with brown on the sides, silvery white below; sometimes with more than 15 rows of obscure whitish stripes; 1st dorsal fin dark blue with black dots; 2nd dorsal fin dark blue; pectorals blackish brown, with tinges of silvery white in some specimens; pelvic fins blue-black with a black fin membrane; caudal fin blackish brown.


Biology

Its distribution varies seasonally, reaching higher latitudes in both the northern and southern hemispheres only during the warm seasons. Usually found in deep (over 300 feet (100 m)) water where surface temperatures are over 72°F (22°C) and have above average salinity (saltiness). Feeds on fishes and squids. Females grow larger.

Appearance

Body Shape
Fusiform
Color
Main Color: Blue-black
Other Color: white
Common Body Shape
Torpedo-shaped


Pattern
None
Length
Avg Length: 84 inches (210 cm)
Max Length: 120 inches (300 cm)
Maximum Weight
181.7 lbs (82500 g)




Specifications

Handling Concerns
Harmless
Conservation Concerns
Declining
Range in USA
ME-TX


Abundance
Uncommon