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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Swordfish and Marlin?

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Swordfish and marlin are both large marine fish, but they have several differences in terms of size, appearance, and taste. Some key differences between swordfish and marlin include:

  1. Size: Marlin are generally larger than swordfish. The largest marlin species, the blue marlin, can be longer than 16.4 feet and weigh up to 1,400 pounds, while swordfish are smaller, reaching 9.8 feet and weighing 1,430 pounds.
  2. Dorsal Fin and Body: The dorsal fin of a marlin resembles a sail, while a swordfish has a dorsal fin that looks much like the fins of a shark. Marlin have a tubular, smooth body, whereas swordfish have an elongated, round body.
  3. Taste: Both fish have pink flesh, but marlin is a fatty fish with a stronger taste, while swordfish is leaner and has a milder taste.
  4. Physical Characteristics: Marlin have scales, whereas swordfish do not. Swordfish also lack teeth.
  5. Fins: The pectoral fins of a marlin are small and barely visible, while swordfish have pectoral fins that extend below its body.
  6. Snout: The snout of a marlin is smooth and round, like a long spike, while a swordfish has a smooth, flat snout that resembles a thin sword.
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  • What is the Difference Between Swordfish and Marlin?
  • Comparative Table: Swordfish vs Marlin

    • Comparative Table: Swordfish vs Marlin

    Here is a table comparing the differences between swordfish and marlin:

    Feature Swordfish Marlin
    Body Shape Rounded Elongated, more cylindrical
    Dorsal Fin Triangular, shark-like Sail-like, brightly colored
    Scales Lose scales as they mature Covered with dense, bony scales
    Spear-like Bill Flat, elongated, almost a third of body length Rounded spear-like, protruding from snout
    Color Deep brown to black back, silver to white underbelly Upper body: cobalt blue, dark blue, blue-green, or pale blue with stripes; underbody: silver or white
    Size Smaller, reaching up to 9.8 feet and 1,430 pounds Larger, reaching up to 16.4 feet and 1,400 pounds
    Taxonomy Belongs to a separate group of fish Belongs to the Billfish group
    Habitat More tolerant of cold water Prefer warmer waters
    Maturity Reaches sexual maturity at 5-6 years of age Reaches sexual maturity at 2-4 years of age
    Lifespan Short, living around 9 years Longer, living up to 20 years
    Culinary Lean and dense, lower fat content Lean and dense, higher fat content

    Despite their similarities, swordfish and marlin have distinct differences in appearance, body shape, size, habitat, and culinary profile.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.