The word "Makaira Nigricans" is a scientific name for a species of fish commonly known as the black marlin. Its spelling can be broken down through the use of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /məˈkaɪrə nɪˈɡrɪkənz/. This phonetic transcription shows that the first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, the second syllable has a long "i" sound, and the third syllable ends with the "r" sound. The fourth syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a stressed "k" and ending in the "ənz" sound.
Makaira nigricans is a species of fish commonly known as the black marlin. It is a large marine predator belonging to the billfish family Istiophoridae. The black marlin is named for its distinctive dark coloration, which is typically black or dark blue on its upper body and white or silver on the belly.
Adult black marlins can reach impressive sizes, with females generally growing larger than males. They can attain lengths of up to 5 meters (16.4 feet) and weigh over 700 kilograms (1,500 pounds). Their sleek and elongated bodies are built for speed, enabling exceptional swimming capabilities. Known for their incredible strength and agility, black marlins are remarkable swimmers and powerful fighters, making them highly sought-after targets for sport fishing enthusiasts.
These fish are found in warm and tropical oceans, inhabiting various regions such as the Indian and Pacific Ocean. They prefer offshore waters, typically swimming near continental shelves and drop-offs. Black marlins are known for their migratory behavior, moving between different areas to find suitable prey and breeding grounds.
Diet-wise, black marlins are voracious predators that primarily feed on smaller fish such as mackerel, tuna, and squid. They use their sharp, pointed bills to slash and incapacitate their prey, often employing their speed to chase down fast-swimming fish.
Due to their impressive size and power, black marlins are highly regarded in both sport fishing and commercial fisheries. However, their populations have faced declines in certain areas due to overfishing and habitat degradation. As a result, conservation efforts are being implemented to ensure the sustainability and preservation of this iconic species.
The word "Makaira Nigricans" is the scientific name for the Atlantic blue marlin, a species of fish.
The word "Makaira" is derived from the Greek word "μάχαιρα" (mákaira) which means "knife" or "dagger". This name is attributed to the marlin's sharp bill and its ability to slash through the water.
The second part of the scientific name, "Nigricans", is derived from the Latin word "niger" which means "black". This name refers to the marlin's characteristic dark blue or blackish coloration.
Combined, the scientific name "Makaira Nigricans" describes the Atlantic blue marlin's physical features of a sharp bill and dark color.