Striped marlin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Striped marlin |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Hooked striped marlin | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Kajikia
|
| Species: |
audax
|
The striped marlin (Kajikia audax) is a type of marlin fish. You can find them in the warm and mild parts of the Indo-Pacific oceans. They usually swim close to the surface of the water.
Striped marlins are popular for both fishing and eating. The biggest one ever caught weighed over 200 kg (441 lb). They can grow up to 4.2 meters (13.8 ft) long. These fish are predators, meaning they hunt other animals for food. They mostly hunt during the day in the top 100 meters of the ocean. Sardines are one of their favorite foods.
Contents
What is a Striped Marlin?
Striped marlins are known for their long, pointed snouts, which look like a spear. This helps them hunt their prey. They are very fast swimmers and can chase down quick fish. Their bodies are sleek and powerful, built for speed in the open ocean.
Where Do They Live?
These marlins live in the wide open waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. They prefer warmer waters but can also be found in slightly cooler areas. They often swim near the surface, but can dive deeper when hunting.
What Do They Eat?
Striped marlins are carnivores, which means they eat meat. Their diet mainly consists of smaller fish like sardines, anchovies, and mackerel. They also eat squid. They use their speed and pointed snout to catch their prey.
Fishing for Striped Marlin
Striped marlins are a favorite target for sport fishermen. They are known for their strong fights when hooked, often jumping out of the water. This makes them exciting to catch. Commercial fishing boats also catch them for food.
How Are They Caught?
Most striped marlins are caught using longlines or by trolling. Trolling involves dragging fishing lines with bait or lures behind a moving boat. This method helps cover a large area to find fish.
Images for kids
-
How many striped marlin were caught from 1950 to 2009
-
A striped marlin swimming in the ocean
