Description
The black marlin ( _ Istiompax indica_ ) is a species of marlin found in tropical and subtropical areas of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Reaching lengths of over 4.5 m (15 ft), it is one of the largest marlins and also one of the largest bony fish. Marlin are among the fastest fish, but speeds are often wildly exaggerated in popular media, such as reports of 132 km/h (82 mph). Recent research suggests a burst speed of 36 kilometres per hour (22 mph) is near the maximum rate. Black marlin are fished commercially and are also a highly prized game fish. Black marlins have been known to drag Maldivian fishing boats of the ancient times for very long distances until it got tired; and then it would then take many hours for the fishermen to row or sail back home.
