MarlinsIstiophoridae

Marlins (family Istiophoridae) are large, fast-swimming predatory fishes with streamlined, elongated bodies. They are typically dark blue to black dorsally and silvery-white ventrally, often marked with iridescent blue or silver vertical stripes. A long, rigid, spear-like snout and a prominent dorsal fin, frequently sail-like, characterise the group. A deeply forked caudal fin propels them, making them among the fastest marine swimmers. The common name 'marlin' derives from the resemblance of their bill to a sailor's marlinspike. Members reach over 4 metres (13 feet) in length and can weigh more than 600 kg (1,320 pounds).

These fishes inhabit the open ocean, typically within the upper 200 metres (650 feet) over deep drop-offs and offshore reefs. They prey on schooling fish and squid, using their bill to stun prey. Observed singly or in small groups, marlins can rapidly intensify their body stripes, which become more vivid during hunting. Encounters by divers are uncommon, primarily occurring in open water near deep drop-offs.