Marlin, Atlantic White

White Marlin (Tetrapturus albidus) are large, elongated fish with a large upper jaw that forms a spear which is round in cross-section. They are dark blue to chocolate-brown in color and are typically smaller than many other billfishes. Although generally considered to be a rare and solitary species relative to other similar fish, white marlin occur in small groups consisting of several individuals. While swimming they commonly display a technique known as "tailing," in which only the dorsal lobe of the caudal fin is visible above the surface of the water. Small aggregations of white marlin may be observed around schools of baitfish.

They reproduce while in the subtropics; spawning in early summer in deep, oceanic waters. Prey items include a variety of fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. White marlin appear to be sight-oriented, daytime feeders. They often aggregate near fronts, the edges between water bodies of differing temperatures or salinities. An important prey item for white marlin is squid. Bony fishes, especially dolphins, blue runner, mackerels, flying fish, and bonito are also commonly eaten.