What is the purpose of the White Marlin's dark dorsal and light belly coloration?
It serves as countershading camouflage adapted for pelagic life.
The coloration pattern exhibited by the White Marlin, featuring dark coloration (deep blue, purplish, or brownish) on the dorsal surfaces and bright silvery or white shades on the belly and lower flanks, is a classic biological adaptation known as countershading. This strategy is highly effective for camouflage in the open ocean environment. When viewed from above by potential predators or prey looking down into the depths, the dark back helps the fish blend with the darker water below. Conversely, when viewed from below against the bright surface light, the light belly makes the fish harder to spot against the glare. This dual-surface blending is essential for survival in its pelagic habitat.
