KOTA KINABALU: A diver in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park was thrilled to spot a rare blue marlin species yesterday, after weeks of spotting whale sharks in the area.
Richard Swann, who has been diving in the area for 25 years, said that he had only seen the species a few times from the surface and once underwater in the Maldives.
He managed to take pictures and video of the two-metre long blue marlin species, which is known for its impressive speed and agility.
"I would say this species is the rarest animal I have ever encountered here.
"It is often found in offshore fish hotspots and can be seen in areas with sardine runs and other strong currents that are rich in fish.
"However, it is very rare and even rarer to get a close look at it. It is a very quick and elusive marine species," said Swann, adding that the fish is capable of speeds up to 80km/h.
The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, situated off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, is famous for its water sports activities, such as scuba diving and snorkelling. It consists of five islands: Gaya, Manukan, Sapi, Sulug, and Mamutik.
Swann speculated that the blue marlin was probably feeding on a particularly busy reef in the area with lots of fish, and that there could be more sightings if fish stocks in the marine park are retained or protected.
Blue marlins are one of the largest species of billfish and are classified as threatened due to overfishing and bycatch.
They are also known as one of the fastest fish in the ocean and can swim at remarkable speeds to catch prey.
Their cobalt blue and silvery white bodies and spear-shaped upper jaws make this large fish stand out in a vast ocean.
Blue marlins are found in the open ocean and are highly migratory, with their range covering much of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, as well as the Mediterranean and Caribbean Seas.