Big, agile and very fast, these relatives of swordfish share their long upper jaw which they use to catch fish.
Amazing Facts About the Marlin
- There are around 10 species of marlin. They are closely related to sword fish.
- The Blue Marlin (Makaira Nigricans) is one of the largest species of fish in the world!
- Not only is it one of the largest fish in the sea, it’s also one of the fastest! They have been known to reach speeds of up to 68mph!
- Marlin have a long, sword-like upper jaw which they use to slash and stun fish, making them easier to catch.
- They can be found in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans.
- Marlin are migratory and travel hundreds or even thousands of miles in warm currents.
- Blue Marlin are vulnerable to over fishing and have been identified as vulnerable to extinction. Efforts by the US government have been successful in rebuilding North Atlantic populations, however the populations in the North-western Pacific and South Atlantic Oceans are uncertain. Populations in the Mediterranean and Indian Oceans are believed to be most threatened.
Picture Credit: NOAA (Wiki COmmons User)