Author: (Philippi, 1887)
FBname: Striped marlin
Comments: Epipelagic and oceanic species, usually found above the thermocline.  Generally inhabit cooler water than either black (<i>Makaira indica</i>) or blue marlin (<i>M. mazara</i>) (Ref. 43).  Most dominant and widely distributed of all billfishes.  Their abundance increases with distance from the continental shelf (Ref. 6390).  Usually seen close to shore only where deep drop-offs occur (Ref. 6390).  Mostly solitary, but form small schools by size during the spawning season (Ref. 9987).  They are usually dispersed at considerably wide distances.  Feed on fishes, crustaceans and squids.  Also caught with the harpoon.  The flesh is the best among billfishes for sashimi and sushi.  Marketed mostly frozen, sometimes fresh (Ref. 43); also smoked and frozen (Ref. 9987).  Also Ref. 9137, 9574.