Mahi-Mahi (Cotyphaena hippurus) - Also known as Dolphin or Dorado

The mahi-mahi (Cotyphaena hippurus), also known as dolphin or dorado, is one of the most beautiful fish in the sea; brilliantly colored with an iridescent bluish green and gold body, and golden yellow fins and tail. The mahi-mahi should not be confused with the mammal called dolphin. One distinguishing characteristic between mature males and females, the male has a very rounded head profile and the female`s head slopes down to the mouth.

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.

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.