Dolphinfishes
Bony fishes

DolphinfishesCoryphaena

Genus1 species

Dolphinfishes (Coryphaena) are fast-swimming pelagic predators with elongated, laterally compressed bodies that taper towards a deeply forked caudal fin. A single dorsal fin extends continuously from the head almost to the caudal peduncle. Males develop a distinct, vertical forehead profile with age. Their colouration is iridescent blue-green dorsally, with golden-yellow flanks and a white belly, often marked with scattered dark spots. These colours can change rapidly, particularly during excitement or distress. Individuals typically reach 1.2 metres (4 ft) in length, with some recorded up to 1.5 metres (5 ft) and 40 kilograms (88 lb).

They inhabit open waters from the surface down to 85 metres (280 ft). These fish are frequently encountered, often solitary or in small groups, near floating debris, buoys, or along steep reef drop-offs. Dolphinfishes prey on various fish and cephalopods.

How to recognise dolphinfishes
TorpedoStreamlined and muscular, built for open-water speed - jacks, tunas, barracudas.
  • single, long dorsal fin from head to tail base
  • deeply forked caudal fin
  • iridescent blue-green and golden-yellow body
  • fast-swimming in open water, often near surface

1 species in Dolphinfishes

Other torpedo-shaped groups

Similar silhouette underwater - worth a look if this was not your animal.

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Last Update: August 3, 2026