Mahi-mahi is a type of fish, of the genus and species Coryphaena hippurus. They frequent warm waters and are typically found in areas like the Caribbean, the South Pacific, and Southeast Asia. The name is comes from the Hawaiian language and is appropriately spelled as one word — mahimahi. The two-word misspelling seems to have become more common, however. Mahi, means strong in Hawaiian, and was used for this particular fish because they are known for their fighting ability and strength. It's the fight in them that makes them a valuable catch for sports fisherman.

Mahi-mahi, until recently, was frequently called a dolphin fish even though they are not related to dolphins and are not mammals. Since many people have negative associations with dolphin deaths associated with fishing, the name mahi-mahi is now more frequently used in stores and restaurants.

Mahi-mahi is an exceptional tasting fish, with a firm white flesh and a sweet flavor. It is less “fishy” tasting that many other fish, and is prized most by people in the US, Japan and in the Caribbean. The fish has been gaining in popularity because a single fish can yield quite a few pounds of meat. The typical mahi-mahi weighs about 20 pounds (9.07 kg). Some can be quite a bit larger, especially males. A few people have caught mahi-mahi that weigh over 50 pounds (22.68 kg).

The average life expectancy of the mahi-mahi is three to four years, and most grow quickly, reaching full size in the first year of life. The fish are carnivores, enjoying a diet of other small fish, squid and crustaceans. They’re often at the near top of the food chain, but certainly make a tasty dish for sharks. They may elude the amateur fisherman and occasionally the shark, with their incredibly quick and powerful swim.

They’re also a rainbow mix of colors, flashing gold, blues and greens that are quite striking. Males are recognized by large foreheads, while females have a smaller head. In both genders the fish have a somewhat flattened and squared-off head.

Obviously mahi-mahi caught fresh from the ocean will yield the best taste, but the fish is often sold frozen. It’s sometimes used in place of swordfish, but on its own, it really doesn’t need to be disguised as something else. Recipes abound for preparing mahi-mahi. You will find it excellent in any recipe calling for a white fish. Mahi-mahi is especially delicious in ceviche and fish tacos, and does very well when lightly seasoned and paired with lime or lemon juice.