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Helicoprion
The Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is a magnificent and highly migratory species of tuna found in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Renowned for its size, speed, and commercial value, it plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. Unfortunately, it is also a species facing significant conservation challenges.
Unknown Unknown years
Lifespan
750 - 1200 cm
Length
Extinct
Conservation Status
Unknown km/h
Swimming speed
Carnivorous
Diet
Unknown
Migration
Appearance Overview
The Atlantic bluefin tuna is a large, torpedo-shaped fish with a metallic blue-black back and a silvery-white underside.
Coloration
Dark metallic blue on top, silvery-white underside
Fins
Two dorsal fins, the first depressible; small finlets behind second dorsal and anal fins
Body Shape
Torpedo-shaped (fusiform) body built for speed and endurance
Length
Up to 13 feet (4 meters), commonly around 6.5 feet (2 meters)
Weight
Up to 2,000 lbs (900 kg), commonly around 550 lbs (250 kg)
Diet
Carnivorous; feeds on a variety of fish (such as herring, mackerel, and hake), squid, crustaceans, and eels.
Feeding Behavior
An opportunistic predator that hunts by sight, often feeding near the surface but capable of diving to considerable depths. They are powerful and fast swimmers, capable of bursts of speed to catch prey.
Social Behavior
Generally forms schools, especially when young. Schooling behavior can be related to size, with larger fish often forming smaller groups or becoming solitary.
Commercial Relevance
Extremely high value, particularly in the Japanese sushi and sashimi market. Individual fish can be sold for tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Conservation measures
Subject to international fishing quotas and regulations managed by organizations like ICCAT (International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas). Marine Protected Areas and fishing gear restrictions are also in place in some regions.
Status
Endangered (IUCN)
Threats
Overfishing (historically and continuing to be a major threat), bycatch in fishing gear, climate change affecting prey distribution and spawning grounds.
Habitat Distribution
Depth Range
Surface waters to depths of over 3,000 feet (1,000 meters), although they typically inhabit the upper layers of the ocean.
Geographic Range
Western and Eastern Atlantic Ocean, including the Mediterranean Sea. They are not found in the Black Sea.
Preferred Environment
Pelagic (open ocean), temperate and subtropical waters. They prefer waters with temperatures ranging from mild to warm.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding Habits
Spawns in two main areas: the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. Spawning typically occurs in warm waters during spring and summer.
Development Stages
Eggs hatch into larvae, which are planktonic. They grow rapidly, undergoing several juvenile stages before reaching adulthood.
Fecundity
Highly fecund; a single female can release up to 30 million eggs per spawning season.
Maturity Age
Reaches sexual maturity at around 4-8 years in the Mediterranean and 8-12 years in the Gulf of Mexico. This difference is related to growth rates and environmental conditions.
Faqs about Helicoprion
Where are Atlantic bluefin tuna found?
Atlantic bluefin tuna are found in the Atlantic Ocean, both in the western and eastern parts, as well as in the Mediterranean Sea.
What do Atlantic bluefin tuna eat?
They are carnivores, feeding on a variety of fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Why are Atlantic bluefin tuna endangered?
Overfishing is the primary threat, driven by high demand for their meat.
Are Atlantic bluefin tuna migratory?
Yes, they are highly migratory, capable of crossing the Atlantic Ocean.
How long do Atlantic bluefin tuna live?
They can live up to 40 years, although this is becoming increasingly rare due to fishing pressure.
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