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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
more sloping; the single dark dorsal fin extends from just
behind the head to the tail; anal fin margin concave and extending
from anus to tail.
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. Often reaching 80 pounds.
Remarks:
One of the fastest growing fish, thought to live no more
than 5 years; swimming speed estimated at 50 knots; spawning
in warm oceanic currents throughout much of the year; young
found in sargassum weed; feeds on flying fish and squid.
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