Blue Marlin (Makaira nigricans & Makaira mazara) - Blue Marlin are found throughout the
worlds oceans in tropical, subtropical, and temperate waters. The blue marlin is notably the largest of billfish species. Blue marlin are characterized by a cylindrical body shape, two dorsal fins (one with a steep slope and one smaller toward the posterior of the organism). and unlike the black marlin the pectoral fins are not rigid. They are named for their cobalt blue dorsal coloration, which fades into a silvery white. The keels on the caudal peduncle on the blue marlin make it an exceptionally strong and fast swimmer, a trait attractive to many anglers.
There are actually two subspecies of blue marlin, Makaira nigricans & Makaira mazara. Makaira nigricans resides in the Atlantic while Makaira mazara resides in the Indian and Pacific oceans. Those in the Pacific and Indian oceans tend to be larger than those in the Atlantic. While the blue marlin is one of the most sought after species by recreational anglers it is not as abundant as other billfish. Primarily near-surface pelagic fishes such as mackerels, tunas, and dolphins are preyed upon by the blue marlin
Blue marlin are distinguished from black marlin (Makaira indica) by the non-rigid pectoral fin and the presence of blue bars displayed along the body. The lower dorsal fin height of blue marlin distinguishes it from striped marlin (Tetrapturus audax), whose dorsal fin height
is equal to its body depth.
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