Fisheries Infosite

Striped Marlin Central(East) (STM2)
Maori name
Taketonga
Scientific name
Tetrapturus audax

Physical characteristics

Striped Marlin have a dark blue back and silver-white underside, with up to 20 narrow cobalt blue stripes. They can grow to a length of 420 cm.

Life cycle

There is no age data available for Striped Marlin. Maturity is thought to be reached at a minimum of 170 cm. Spawning is at its peak during November and December.

Habitat

Striped Marlin are found around New Zealand, mostly north of 40 °S. They stay close to the surface and feed mainly on Saury, Arrow Squid, and Jack Mackerel.

 
Key statistics
Reported commercial catch1 (tonnes)
Quota value estimate2 (NZ$m)
Exports estimate2 (NZ$m)
1 Reported commercial catch is calculated for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025
2 Quota value and exports are calculated pro-rata to reported commercial catch for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025