Fin's Fish Guide
The Common dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) is a saltwater fish of the family Coryphaenidae that grows up to 210 cm.
Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, also in the Mediterranean Sea, pelagic in open water and often near floating material.
Description
The common dolphinfish or mahi-mahi is a vividly coloured, very fast open-water fish of the family Coryphaenidae reaching about 2 metres. Alive it is brilliant golden-yellow with green-blue tints and dark spots, which fade quickly after capture. The long dorsal fin runs along nearly the whole back; the adult male develops a high, blunt, almost vertical forehead. The species is widely distributed in warm seas worldwide, including the Mediterranean, and lives pelagically in open water, often near drifting weed and flotsam. It hunts flying fish, schooling fish, squid and crustaceans. It grows exceptionally fast and rarely lives more than a few years. With its tasty flesh it is an important commercial and sport fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common dolphinfish?
The Common dolphinfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Brightly coloured, very fast open-water fish with a long, continuous dorsal fin; the male develops a high, blunt forehead. Grows exceptionally fast. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Common dolphinfish live?
The Common dolphinfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, also in the Mediterranean Sea, pelagic in open water and often near floating material.
How big does the Common dolphinfish get?
The Common dolphinfish grows to a maximum of about 210 cm. On average the species is around 100 cm.
Is the Common dolphinfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Common dolphinfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Common dolphinfish edible?
Yes, the Common dolphinfish is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Common dolphinfish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Coryphaena
More from the family Coryphaenidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common dolphinfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.