What shape characterizes the powerful caudal fin necessary for rapid acceleration?
Answer
It is large, stiff, and crescent-shaped (lunate).
The caudal fin, commonly known as the tail, is the primary engine for propulsion in fast-swimming pelagic fish like the White Marlin. This structure is described as being large, stiff, and possessing a distinct crescent shape, technically referred to as lunate. This morphology is specialized to provide the immense thrust required for rapid acceleration, which is characteristic of how marlins achieve their high burst speeds when pursuing prey. The rigidity of the tail, combined with the action of the muscular body core, generates the necessary force for fast movement in the open ocean.
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