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Image of White Marlin
White Marlin

The Atlantic white marlin, Kajikia albida, dazzles with its shimmering blue dorsal fin and elongated bill. A swift predator of the warm Atlantic, it plays a vital role in marine food chains, using speed and agility to hunt. Its presence signals a healthy oceanic ecosystem.

Blue, White
Color
77 mph
Top Speed
Least Concern
Conservation Status
Increasing
Population Trend
Characteristics
Kajikia albida, commonly known as the Atlantic white marlin, is a striking pelagic fish found in warm Atlantic waters. It is known for its elongated body, distinctive spear-like upper jaw, and vibrant blue dorsal fin. A skilled predator, it preys on smaller fish and squid, showcasing remarkable agility and speed.
Distribution Range of the White Marlin
Kajikia albida, commonly known as the Atlantic White Marlin, is native to the Atlantic Ocean. Its geographical distribution spans both the eastern and western Atlantic, from the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, and the western Atlantic up to New England in the north, and as far south as Brazil. In the eastern Atlantic, it ranges from Portugal and the Azores to the western coast of Africa, south to Angola.
White Marlin's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Atlantic White Marlin inhabits warm temperate and tropical waters. They are typically found in the open ocean, often in areas where the water temperature ranges from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius (72 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). They are pelagic fish, meaning they live neither close to the bottom nor near the shore, often found at depths of 0 to 200 meters (0 to 656 feet).
Ecological Niche
Kajikia albida occupies the ecological niche of a top predator in the pelagic zone of the ocean. They primarily feed on a variety of smaller fish and cephalopods, such as squid. Their role in the ecosystem is crucial as they help maintain the balance of marine life by regulating the population of their prey species. The marlin's swift swimming abilities and migratory behavior also play a part in nutrient distribution across the ocean.