The Mahi Mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) is a highly sought-after pelagic species found globally in tropical and subtropical waters. It is also widely recognized as Dorado or Dolphinfish. Note that the Dolphinfish is a ray-finned fish and bears no relation to the aquatic mammal known as a dolphin. Its impressive size and vibrant coloration make this surface-dwelling predator a prized target for commercial fisheries and recreational anglers.
Defining the Maximum Size
Most adult Mahi Mahi caught commercially or by anglers typically weigh between 15 and 29 pounds and measure around three feet in length. Individuals reaching over 40 pounds are uncommon but demonstrate the upper limits of the species’ size. The largest recorded catches push this boundary significantly further; the all-tackle world record recognized by the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) weighed 88 pounds. While rare, these maximum specimens can approach six feet in total length.
Factors Driving Rapid Growth
The remarkable size Mahi Mahi attain in a short period results directly from their extremely high metabolism and voracious feeding habits. They are one of the fastest-growing fish species in the ocean, supported by a short lifespan that rarely exceeds four or five years. This rapid development means the fish must acquire energy at an accelerated rate to fuel their growth and sustain an active, predatory lifestyle. Their diet is highly opportunistic, consisting primarily of forage fish, squid, and crustaceans found near the surface. This continuous, energy-rich consumption drives a high post-feeding metabolic demand, known as specific dynamic action, which facilitates the rapid conversion of food into body mass.
Size Variation Between Males and Females
A distinct difference in size and appearance, known as sexual dimorphism, exists between male and female Mahi Mahi. Males, often called “bulls,” generally grow larger and heavier than females, known as “cows,” throughout their adult lives. This size discrepancy relates to the male’s more competitive role in the pelagic environment. The most noticeable physical distinction is the shape of the head, which becomes more pronounced as the fish matures. The male develops a steep, nearly vertical forehead that gives the head a blunt, squared-off appearance, while the female retains a more rounded and sloping head profile.