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Ember Tetra
The Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is a highly migratory, large pelagic fish renowned for its size, speed, and commercial value. This species plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem and has significant cultural and economic importance.
2 4 years
Lifespan
2 cm
Length
Least Concern
Conservation Status
null km/h
Swimming speed
Omnivorous
Diet
Sedentary
Migration
Appearance Overview
The Atlantic bluefin tuna is a large, streamlined fish with a metallic blue body and a silvery underside.
Coloration
Dark metallic blue on top, silvery white underside.
Body Shape
Torpedo-shaped, built for speed and endurance.
Fins
Two dorsal fins, the first depressible; small finlets running from dorsal and anal fins to the tail.
Length
Up to 13 feet (4 meters)
Weight
Up to 2,000 lbs (900 kg)
Diet
Carnivorous, feeding on a variety of fish, squid, crustaceans, and eels.
Feeding Behavior
Highly active predator, using speed and coordinated hunting strategies to capture prey. They are opportunistic feeders.
Social Behavior
Forms large schools, especially during migration and spawning. Schools are often segregated by size.
Commercial Relevance
Extremely high value, particularly in sushi and sashimi markets, where its fatty flesh is considered a delicacy.
Conservation measures
Subject to strict fishing quotas, international agreements (e.g., ICCAT), and monitoring programs. Marine protected areas also play a role.
Status
Endangered (Varies by population segment; some are considered 'Near Threatened' or 'Least Concern' under specific regional assessments)
Threats
Overfishing (historically and ongoing in some areas), bycatch, climate change affecting prey distribution and spawning grounds.
Habitat Distribution
Depth Range
0-1,000 meters (typically in the upper layers, but can dive deep)
Geographic Range
Found throughout the North Atlantic Ocean, including the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.
Preferred Environment
Temperate and subtropical waters; pelagic (open ocean) species.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding Habits
Spawns in two main areas: the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. Spawning occurs in warm waters during specific seasons.
Development Stages
Eggs hatch into larvae, which develop rapidly. Juveniles grow quickly, reaching significant size within the first few years.
Fecundity
Highly fecund; a single female can produce up to 30 million eggs per spawning season.
Maturity Age
Maturity varies by location; Mediterranean populations mature earlier (around 4-5 years) than Western Atlantic populations (around 8-12 years).
Faqs about Ember Tetra
How long do Atlantic bluefin tuna live?
Atlantic bluefin tuna can live up to 40 years.
How fast can Atlantic bluefin tuna swim?
They are among the fastest fish in the ocean, capable of bursts of speed up to 43 mph (70 km/h).
Are Atlantic bluefin tuna warm-blooded?
Yes, they are warm-blooded, which allows them to maintain a higher body temperature than the surrounding water.
What is the biggest threat to Atlantic bluefin tuna?
The main threat is overfishing, driven by high demand for their meat.
Do Atlantic bluefin tuna migrate?
They undertake long migrations across the Atlantic Ocean, often for spawning and feeding.
What do Atlantic bluefin tuna eat?
They primarily eat fish, squid, and crustaceans, but their diet can vary depending on their size and location.
Are Atlantic bluefin tuna farmed?
Yes, there are farming operations, primarily in the Mediterranean, but they often rely on capturing young wild tuna and fattening them.
Which organization manages Atlantic bluefin tuna populations?
ICCAT (International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas) is the primary organization responsible for their management.
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