Fin's Fish Guide
The Indo-Pacific blue marlin (Makaira mazara) is a saltwater fish of the family Istiophoridae that grows up to 500 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Chile, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei and others
Description
The Indo-Pacific blue marlin is a large billfish (Istiophoridae) from the open Indo-Pacific. The species can grow to about 5 metres and has a robust, torpedo-shaped, blue-black body with a pale belly, a high first dorsal fin and a long, spear-like upper jaw. As a fast top predator it hunts schools of tuna, mackerel and squid in the open sea, stunning them with its bill. It is a prized sport fish; when landed the sharp bill can inflict a serious puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Indo-Pacific blue marlin?
The Indo-Pacific blue marlin has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly blue. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Indo-Pacific blue marlin live?
The Indo-Pacific blue marlin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Oceania: Australia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Chile, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei and others
How big does the Indo-Pacific blue marlin get?
The Indo-Pacific blue marlin grows to a maximum of about 500 cm. On average the species is around 350 cm.
Is the Indo-Pacific blue marlin dangerous to humans?
The Indo-Pacific blue marlin can cause injury; handle it with care. When landing a hooked fish keep clear of the long, spear-like bill; it can inflict a deep puncture wound. For a wound: rinse with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing; have a deep wound assessed medically and check tetanus status.
Is the Indo-Pacific blue marlin edible?
Yes, the Indo-Pacific blue marlin is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Indo-Pacific blue marlin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Indo-Pacific blue marlin is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Makaira
More from the family Istiophoridae
Want the complete picture on the Indo-Pacific blue marlin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Indo-Pacific blue marlin is one of 12,519 species in the app.