Marlin (POND) is a layer-0 network optimization protocol that provides high-performance, low-latency connectivity for blockchains and
decentralized applications through a decentralized relay network. Founded in 2018 by Dongmo Zhang and team, it uses a
Proof-of-Stake relay network with POND tokens for
staking and validation, improving bandwidth efficiency, reducing latency, and enhancing scalability for
layer-1 and
layer-2 networks. Marlin supports optimized routing, congestion control, and secure data transmission, with the POND token powering staking rewards, governance voting, and fee payments in a scalable infrastructure layer for
Web3 connectivity, DeFi, and high-throughput applications.
When Did Marlin Launch?
Marlin was founded in 2018 by Dongmo Zhang and the team, launching its
mainnet and POND token in 2020 after private funding rounds. The project achieved early milestones with relay network expansions in 2021-2022, partnerships with major layer-1 and layer-2 chains in 2023-2024, and 2025 upgrades for enhanced congestion control, DePIN integrations, and AI-optimized routing, maintaining steady development and adoption by December 2025.
What Are the Key Features of Marlin?
Marlin features a decentralized relay network with Proof-of-Stake validation for high-performance connectivity, optimized routing and congestion control for reduced latency, staking for network security and rewards, governance through POND token voting, support for multiple blockchains, audited security protocols, and tools for layer-1 and layer-2 networks to improve transaction speed and reliability in a scalable infrastructure layer.
What Is POND Used For?
POND is used for staking to validate relays and earn rewards, voting on governance proposals, paying for premium connectivity services, providing liquidity for yields, and accessing ecosystem incentives for node operators and developers.
What Is the POND Token Utility?
POND secures relay network validation through staking and slashing, powers governance voting on protocol upgrades, covers connectivity fees with potential discounts, incentivizes node operators via rewards, and funds treasury for network expansions and partnerships.
What Blockchain Does Marlin Operate On?
Marlin operates on its own Layer-0 relay network with support for multiple blockchains through optimized connectivity and bridges.
What Are POND Tokenomics?
POND has a capped supply with circulation from unlocks as of December 2025. Allocation: staking rewards, governance incentives, team vested, treasury; deflationary via fee mechanisms.