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Ichthyostega
The Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is a majestic and powerful fish, renowned for its size, speed, and long migrations. It plays a vital role in the marine ecosystem and holds significant commercial value.
Unknown Unknown years
Lifespan
150 cm
Length
Extinct
Conservation Status
Unknown km/h
Swimming speed
Carnivorous
Diet
Sedentary
Migration
Appearance Overview
The Atlantic bluefin tuna is renowned for its large, streamlined body, built for speed and endurance.
Color
Dark metallic blue above, silvery white below
Body shape
Torpedo-like, streamlined
Fins
Two dorsal fins, the first depressible; small, yellow finlets running from dorsal and anal fins to tail
Scales
Small and cycloid (smooth-edged)
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, feeding on a variety of fish, squid, crustaceans, and eels.
Feeding Behavior
Highly active predator, using speed and coordinated hunting strategies, sometimes forming large schools to corral prey.
Social Behavior
Forms schools, often segregated by size; highly migratory, with some populations crossing entire oceans.
Commercial Relevance
Extremely high value, particularly in the sushi and sashimi markets; one of the most expensive fish species globally.
Conservation measures
Subject to strict fishing quotas, international agreements (ICCAT), and monitoring programs; efforts to reduce bycatch and improve stock management.
Status
Varies by population; Western Atlantic stock: Near Threatened, Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean stock: Least Concern.
Threats
Overfishing (historically and ongoing in some areas), bycatch in other fisheries, climate change affecting prey distribution and spawning grounds.
Habitat Distribution
Depth Range
Surface waters to depths of over 3,000 feet (1,000 meters), but typically found in the upper few hundred feet.
Geographic Range
Western and Eastern Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and formerly in the Black Sea.
Preferred Environment
Prefers temperate and subtropical waters; highly migratory, often found in open ocean and coastal areas.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding Habits
Spawns in warm waters, primarily in the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico; spawning occurs in specific areas and times, often in large aggregations.
Development Stages
Eggs are pelagic (free-floating); larvae develop rapidly, feeding on plankton; juveniles grow quickly, forming schools and exhibiting predatory behavior.
Fecundity
Highly fecund; females can release up to 30 million eggs per spawning season, depending on their size and condition.
Maturity Age
Western Atlantic stock: matures around 8-12 years; Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean stock: matures around 3-5 years.
Faqs about Ichthyostega
How long do Atlantic bluefin tuna live?
They can live up to 40 years, although the average lifespan is likely shorter due to fishing pressure.
How fast can they swim?
They are among the fastest fish in the ocean, capable of bursts of speed up to 43 mph (70 km/h).
Is it sustainable to eat Atlantic bluefin tuna?
Yes, but it must be sourced responsibly. Check for certifications like those from the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or recommendations from reputable seafood guides.
Are Atlantic Bluefin tuna warm-blooded?
Atlantic bluefin tuna have a unique ability to maintain a body temperature higher than the surrounding water, allowing them to thrive in a wide range of temperatures.
What are the main threats to Atlantic bluefin tuna?
The main threat is overfishing, which has drastically reduced their populations in the past. Other threats include bycatch and climate change.
Do they migrate?
Yes, they undertake long migrations across the Atlantic Ocean for feeding and spawning.
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