The black marlin (Istiompax indica) is a species of marlin found in tropical and subtropical areas of the Indian and Pacific Oceans approximately between 40 degrees North and 45 degrees South, while in some instances venturing into more temperate waters.

[4] A 2016 study estimated maximum swimming speeds from muscle contraction times, which in turn limit the tail-beat frequency; the study suggested a theoretical upper limit for the black marlin's burst speed of 36 kilometres per hour (22 mph).

[6] Due to the common misidentification of large billfish such as the black marlin, as well as its highly migratory habits and the lack of research into the species, much about populations are unknown.

[7] The species was first known as Tetrapturus indicus and later was reclassified as Makaira indica before taking on its current scientific name.

One of the earliest scientific records of black marlin is its description by French zoologist Georges Cuvier in 1832.

[10] Black marlin are measured like other bill fish from the tip of their lower jaw to the fork of their tail.

[17] Juvenile black marlin around Australia utilize the great barrier reef lagoon as an area to grow and develop due to an abundance of resources.

In Taiwan, data from studies have provided evidence from population samples that there is likely a larger female to male ratio.

[2] Due to the migratory nature of these fish and a lack of research, the population size and health cannot be accurately stated.

In Taiwan, data from studies have provided evidence from population samples that there is likely a larger female to male ratio.

In August 1953, while fishing off of Cabo Blanco, Peru, Alfred C. Glassell Jr. caught a black marlin weighing 1,560 pounds (710 kg), using a handheld 7 foot (2.1 m) bamboo rod, a Fin-Nor reel and 130-pound-test linen line.

[24] The black marlin caught by Alfred C. Glassell Jr. is stuffed and can be viewed in the National History Museum in Washington, D.C.[25]