Yes. Mahi mahi is also called dolphinfish (or dorado); its scientific name is Coryphaena hippurus. Despite the name, it is a fish unrelated to dolphin mammals.
Why the names are confusing
“Dolphin fish” is more commonly written as “dolphinfish.” The word can be confusing because it also brings to mind the marine mammal. NOAA-hosted FishWatch material states that dolphinfish is not related to dolphin the mammal.
Mahi mahi, dolphinfish, and dorado are common names for the fish Coryphaena hippurus. NOAA Fisheries lists these names for Pacific and Atlantic mahimahi.
Names for the same fish
| Name | What it refers to |
|---|---|
| Mahi mahi or mahimahi | The fish Coryphaena hippurus |
| Dolphinfish or dolphin fish | Common names for Coryphaena hippurus |
| Dorado | Another common name for mahi mahi |
| Dolphin mammal | A marine mammal, not the fish called mahi mahi |
For species-level precision, use the scientific name rather than relying on “dolphinfish” alone.
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How mahi mahi differs from pompano dolphinfish
The family Coryphaenidae includes common dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) and pompano dolphinfish (Coryphaena equiselis). They are separate species, so “dolphinfish” may need clarification when a source is discussing identification rather than the seafood name.
NOAA Fisheries describes visible and anatomical distinctions between them, including dorsal-fin ray count and a broad, square tooth patch on the tongue. These details matter for identification; the name mahi mahi refers to C. hippurus.
Is mahi mahi a food fish?
Yes. NOAA Fisheries describes mahi mahi as sought for commercial purposes and commonly served. Its seafood page describes a sweet, mild flavor and lean, fairly firm flesh.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Frequently Asked Questions
Is a dolphin fish an actual dolphin?
No. Mahi mahi, also called dolphinfish, is a fish. It is unrelated to dolphin mammals.
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What is the difference between dolphin fish and mahi mahi?
They are common names for the same fish, Coryphaena hippurus. “Dolphinfish” can also appear in a broader species-identification context, so use the scientific name when precision matters.
Is dorado the same as mahi mahi?
Yes. NOAA Fisheries lists dorado as a common name for mahi mahi.
Are mahi mahi and pompano dolphinfish the same species?
No. Mahi mahi is Coryphaena hippurus; pompano dolphinfish is the separate species Coryphaena equiselis.
Can people eat mahi mahi?
Yes. NOAA Fisheries describes mahi mahi as a commercially sought fish that is commonly served.
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