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Shortfin Mako Shark
The Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is a highly migratory, large pelagic fish renowned for its size, speed, and commercial value. Prized in culinary traditions, particularly in Japanese cuisine, it faces significant conservation challenges due to its high demand. This species plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem.
29 32 years
Lifespan
400 cm
Length
Endangered
Conservation Status
74 km/h
Swimming speed
Carnivorous
Diet
Highly Migratory
Migration
Appearance Overview
The Atlantic bluefin tuna is a large, torpedo-shaped fish with a metallic blue-black back and a silvery-white belly.
Coloration
Metallic blue-black on top, silvery-white underside
Fins
Two dorsal fins, the first depressible; small finlets behind second dorsal and anal fins
Body Shape
Torpedo-shaped, streamlined for speed
Length
Up to 13 feet (4 meters)
Weight
Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Diet
Carnivorous; feeds on fish, squid, crustaceans, and eels.
Feeding Behavior
Aggressive predator; uses speed and coordinated hunting to capture prey.
Social Behavior
Forms large schools, sometimes segregated by size; highly migratory.
Commercial Relevance
Extremely high value, especially in sushi and sashimi markets in Japan.
Conservation measures
International fishing quotas, size limits, and seasonal closures.
Status
Endangered
Threats
Overfishing, habitat degradation, and bycatch in other fisheries.
Habitat Distribution
Depth Range
0-1,000 meters (0-3,280 feet)
Geographic Range
Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and formerly the Black Sea
Preferred Environment
Temperate and subtropical waters; 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.
Development Stages
Eggs hatch into larvae; rapid growth in first year; juveniles develop into adults.
Fecundity
Females can produce up to 30 million eggs per spawning season.
Maturity Age
Matures at 4-8 years in the Mediterranean, and later (around 9-12 years old) in the western Atlantic
Faqs about Shortfin Mako Shark
How long do Atlantic bluefin tuna live?
Atlantic bluefin tuna can live up to 40 years.
Are Atlantic bluefin tuna fast swimmers?
Yes, they are among the fastest fish, capable of swimming at speeds up to 43 mph (70 km/h).
How do bluefin tuna stay warm in cold waters?
They have a specialized vascular system that allows them to maintain a body temperature higher than the surrounding water.
Why is Atlantic bluefin tuna so expensive?
Atlantic bluefin tuna is highly prized for its flavor and texture, especially in sushi and sashimi.
What is the biggest threat to Atlantic bluefin tuna?
The main threat is overfishing, driven by high demand and market value.
How far do Atlantic bluefin tuna migrate?
Atlantic bluefin tuna can migrate across entire oceans, covering thousands of miles.
Are Atlantic bluefin tuna warm-blooded?
They are warm-blooded, unlike most fish, which allows them to thrive in a wider range of water temperatures.
Where do Atlantic bluefin tuna spawn?
They spawn in specific areas like the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.
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