White Marlin – The Billfish Foundation is a vital topic in marine conservation. This majestic billfish not only symbolizes oceanic grace but also plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance in the Atlantic
What is the white marlin?
The white marlin (Kajikia albida) is a fast, agile billfish found primarily in the Atlantic Ocean. It can grow up to 9 feet in length and weigh up to 180 pounds. With a sharp, sword-like bill and a high, rounded dorsal fin, it is easily recognizable in open waters.
Diet and Lifestyle
It feeds mostly on squid and small fish. They are known for their speed, swimming up to 50 mph. Interestingly, they often swim with their fins above the water, making them visible from the surface—an unusual trait among deep-sea fish.
The Role of The Billfish Foundation
Founded in 1986, The Billfish Foundation (TBF) focuses on conserving billfish species like the White Marlin. One of its core efforts is the Tag and Release Program, the largest private tagging database in the world. Over 260,000 records have been submitted by anglers globally, helping researchers understand migration and population patterns.
The Skillie Project (2024)
In 2024, TBF launched The Skillie Project, the largest satellite-tagging mission focused on White Marlin. Conducted near the southeastern coast of New England, this project aims to track the migration and habitat preferences of the species using advanced tagging technology. It helps build effective and sustainable conservation strategies.
A Notable Recapture Case
In 2013, an angler tagged a off the coast of Cap Cana, Dominican Republic. Remarkably, the same fish was recaptured almost a year later near its original location. This showed strong site fidelity, providing critical data on White Marlin behavior and reinforcing the importance of tagging.
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Conclusion
Thanks to ongoing efforts by The Billfish Foundation, the conservation of White Marlin is making significant progress. Through science-based tagging, research, and community involvement, we can ensure a sustainable future for this remarkable species. Supporting such initiatives means preserving marine life for generations to come.
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