Mahi-mahi vs Swordfish
Coryphaena hippurus compared with Xiphias gladius
Taxonomy & Classification
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Swordfish |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Coryphaena hippurus | Xiphias gladius |
| Order | Carangiformes | Istiophoriformes |
| Family | Coryphaenidae | Xiphiidae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Physical Traits
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Swordfish |
|---|---|---|
| Max Length | 210.0 cm | 455.0 cm |
| Max Weight | 40.0 kg | 650.0 kg |
| Color | Dazzling iridescent blue-green and gold flanks; males have a blunt squared-off head; flanks flicker golden-yellow to electric blue when alive, fading to dull gray-green at death. | Dark brown to blackish-purple back contrasting sharply with a pale cream-white belly; sides are dull bronze-brown; large crescent-shaped tail fin is dark; skin scaleless and leathery. |
Habitat & Environment
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Swordfish |
|---|---|---|
| Water Type | Saltwater | Saltwater |
| Depth Range | 0-85m | 0-2878m |
| Geographic Range | Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceanic waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. Highly pelagic; gathers around floating sargassum mats, current lines, and thermocline … | Cosmopolitan in temperate and tropical oceans worldwide, including the Mediterranean Sea, Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific oceans. Makes deep vertical migrations between surface feeding and depths … |
| Habitat | Neritic, pelagic, coral reefs | Oceanic and neritic zones worldwide in temperate and tropical seas; surface to 650m. Highly migratory, following prey into cold, productive upwelling zones. Rarely found near … |
Fishing Information
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Swordfish |
|---|---|---|
| Game Fish | Yes | Yes |
| Fight Rating | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| World Record | — | — |
| Mercury Level | — | — |
Cuisine & Edibility
Mahi-mahi
Firm, slightly sweet flesh with large, moist flakes and low fat. Excellent grilled, blackened Cajun-style, or in tacos; one of the most popular sport fish for the table.
Swordfish
Dense, meaty flesh with a mild, slightly sweet flavor; moderate fat and steak-like texture. Ideal for grilling, broiling, or searing; pairs well with lemon-herb or citrus salsas.
Species Overview
Mahi-mahi
The mahi-mahi, also known as dorado or dolphinfish, is among the most colorful pelagic fish in the ocean. Its iridescent blue, green, and gold body fades rapidly after death. It is a fast-growing species, rarely living beyond five years.
Swordfish
The swordfish is a highly migratory pelagic predator recognized by its long, flat, pointed bill. It can dive to depths exceeding 2,800 meters and possesses a specialized organ that heats its eyes and brain for improved vision in cold, deep water.