Atlantic Blue Marlin

Makaira nigricans

Managed by: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Regions

Florida

Protected status

None

Also known as

Blue Marlin

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC

Size

Up to 16 feet (1400 pounds); largest Atlantic marlin species

Similar species

White marlin, K. albida (dorsal fin rounded with noticeable spots; tip of pectoral and anal fins rounded) Size: Up to 16 feet (1400 pounds); largest Atlantic marlin species

Appearance

Back is blue-black, fading to a silvery-white belly
Tips of dorsal, pectoral and anal fins are pointed
Lack black spots on dorsal fin
Upper jaw elongated into a spear shape
Scales with one or two sharp points
Lateral line is interwoven like a net, hard to see in large individuals

Habitat

Offshore waters

Behavior

Unlike swordfish, blue marlin feed mostly during the day on fish and squid. They hunt alone and have been reported to use their long, sharp bill to slice or stun prey.

Additional information

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Sources

Managed by: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

FWC Wildlife Habitats Profile (FL)

Image credit: NOAA Fisheries/Jack Hornady