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Common dolphinfish

Distribution : Tropical and subtropical Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans, including the Maldives; also in the Mediterranean and Red Sea.

Malta's mahi-mahi fishery has developed its own vocabulary and longstanding practices. Known locally as « lampuki », the fish gather beneath anchored floating devices called « kannizzati », traditionally fitted with palm fronds. In August 2025, Maltese authorities reported distributing more than 3,000 palm leaves to fishermen preparing for the season. This tradition still draws on trees in Maltese gardens and along the roads for some of its fishing gear.

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Habitat of Common dolphinfish Habitat
Open water
Depth range of Common dolphinfish Depth
0-250 m
Biological group of Common dolphinfish Group
Ecological role of Common dolphinfish Role
Predator

Size

Up to 210 cm

Good to know

Observe without touching or feeding animals and keep clear of the coral.

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

Large male common dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) have a tall, almost vertical forehead, while females have a rounder head. Blue spots dot the blue-green and yellow body. A very long fin runs along the back, and the tail is deeply forked. The largest fish can exceed 2 m. Their colours change quickly.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

It lives offshore in warm water, including around the Maldives. It occurs in the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans, as well as the Mediterranean and Red Sea. It also approaches coasts.

It mainly uses water close to the surface and may gather under driftwood or seaweed. It also travels far from floating objects. Tagging has recorded descents to 250 m. However, it spends most of its time in the warmer upper waters.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

Near the surface, the common dolphinfish pursues fish, including flying fish. Squid also feature in its diet. Floating seaweed offers feeding opportunities, with small fish, crabs and shrimps available around it. The importance of different prey varies with the resources encountered.

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Common dolphinfish

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