Any of several open-sea fishes known as billfishes. Some 2.5 m/7 ft long, they are found in warmer waters and have elongated snouts and high-standing dorsal (back) fins. Members of the family include the
sailfish (
Istiophorus platypterus), the fastest of all fishes over short distances reaching speeds of 100 kph/62 mph and the
blue marlin (
Makaira nigricans), highly prized as a game fish. (Family Istiophoridae, order Perciformes.)
© RM 2009. Helicon Publishing is division of RM.