Blue marlin (Makaira nigricans) is a saltwater species recorded in the United States. It is found at depths of 0–1000 m. The main season in the United States runs all year.
Scientific name: Makaira nigricans · Water: Saltwater · Season: All year
Size: up to 500 cm
The blue marlin is an oceanic istiophorid; water colour affects its occurrence, at least in the northern Gulf of Mexico, where the fish show a preference for blue water. It rarely gathers in schools and is usually found as scattered single individuals, and feeding takes place during the daytime. It feeds mainly on fishes but also preys on octopods and squid. Its range is the Atlantic Ocean in tropical and temperate waters. Maximum length is about 500 cm total length, commonly about 290 cm, and it can live 20 years, maturity being reached at about 80 cm in males and 50 cm in females, with females growing larger than males. It is a commercial species and a gamefish, marketed fresh or frozen. Fishing vulnerability is moderate to high at 52 of 100 and resilience low, the price category is high, and climate vulnerability is moderate to high at 50 of 100. IUCN lists it as vulnerable. It is in season throughout the year.
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