Pronunciation: [wˈa͡ɪt mˈɑːlɪn] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the fish species "white marlin" is /ˈwaɪt ˈmɑːrlɪn/. The word "white" is pronounced with the /waɪt/ sound, which is a long "i" sound. The word "marlin" is pronounced with the /ˈmɑːrlɪn/ sound, which is a combination of a long "a" sound, as in "car," and a short "i" sound. The white marlin is a sought-after game fish found in the Atlantic Ocean, commonly caught using trolling methods.
White marlin is a noun that refers to a species of billfish, scientifically known as Kajikia albida. This marine creature belongs to the Istiophoridae family and is characterized by its sleek, elongated body, distinct bill, and vibrant coloration. It is primarily found in the Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the warm tropical and subtropical waters, with its distribution ranging from the coast of New England to Brazil.
The white marlin typically grows to an average length of about 8-9 feet and weighs around 50-80 pounds, although larger specimens have been recorded. It possesses a distinguishable color pattern, with a silvery-white underbelly and a bluish-black upper surface. This species features a long, slender bill with a rounded tip, which it uses as a tool for hunting and capturing prey.
Known for their speed and agility, white marlins are highly skilled predators that feed mainly on small schooling fish, including mackerel, tuna, and squid. Despite being formidable hunters, they are also frequently targeted by commercial and recreational fishermen due to their sporting appeal and culinary value. White marlins are considered prized game fish, known for their spirited fights and acrobatic leaps when hooked.
Due to overfishing, the white marlin population has experienced significant declines over the years, leading to conservation efforts and regulations aimed at protecting and sustaining their numbers. Organizations such as the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) play a crucial role in monitoring and managing the white marlin population to ensure their long-term survival in the ocean ecosystems.
The word "white marlin" is a combination of the adjective "white" and the noun "marlin".
The term "marlin" originated from the Spanish word "marlín", which means "spearfish" or "spear" in English. The Spanish word itself is believed to have come from the Old Norse word "marlínon", which also referred to a type of fish.
The adjective "white", on the other hand, comes from the Old English word "hwīt", which has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "hwītaz". The term "white" has been used to describe the color associated with lightness or brightness.
By combining these two words, "white marlin" describes a specific species of marlin with a predominantly white or silvery coloration.
