Dolphin (Coryphaena hippurus)
| Description: bright greenish blue above, yellow on
sides, with capability of flashing purple, chartreuse, and a wide range of other colors;
body tapers sharply from head to tail; irregular blue or golden blotches scattered over
sides; anterior profile of head on adult males is nearly vertical; head of females extends
from just behind the head to the tail; anal fin margin concave and extending from anus to
tail. |
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| Similar fish: pompano dolphin, C. equisetis.
The pompano dolphin has squarish tooth patch on tongue (oval tooth patch on
dolphin) and fewer dorsal rays (48 to 55 vs 55 to 65 on dolphin).
Where found: OFFSHORE
in warm waters.
Size: common to 30 pounds |
Remarks: one of the fastest-growing
fish, thought to live no more than 5 years; swimming speed estimated at 50 knots; spawns
in warm oceanic currents throughout much of the year; young found in sargassum weed; feeds
on flying fish and squid.
Florida record 77 lbs., 12 ozs. |
