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Leedsichthys
The Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is a highly migratory, large predatory fish renowned for its size, speed, and commercial value. It plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem and has significant cultural and economic importance, especially in the sushi industry.
40 45 years
Lifespan
1650 cm
Length
Extinct
Conservation Status
17.4 km/h
Swimming speed
Filter Feeding, Planktivorous
Diet
Unknown
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 underside
Body Shape
Torpedo-shaped, built for speed and endurance
Fins
Two dorsal fins, the first depressible; small finlets running down to the tail
Scales
Small and smooth
Length
Up to 13 feet (4 meters)
Weight
Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Diet
Carnivorous, feeding on a variety of fish, squid, crustaceans, and eels.
Feeding Behavior
Highly active predator, often hunting cooperatively, using speed and agility to capture prey. They can dive to significant depths.
Social Behavior
Forms large schools, especially during spawning season, but can also be found in smaller groups or alone. Highly migratory.
Commercial Relevance
Extremely high value, particularly in the sushi and sashimi markets, leading to significant overfishing.
Conservation measures
International fishing quotas, regulations on fishing gear, and efforts to establish marine protected areas. Monitoring and research programs are ongoing.
Status
Endangered (Varies by population segment; some are considered critically endangered)
Threats
Overfishing (primarily for sushi/sashimi), bycatch in fishing gear, climate change affecting prey distribution and spawning grounds, and habitat degradation.
Habitat Distribution
Depth Range
0-1,000 meters (0-3,280 feet), but typically found in shallower waters.
Geographic Range
North Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico.
Preferred Environment
Temperate and subtropical waters; both pelagic (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 large aggregations.
Development Stages
Eggs hatch into larvae, which develop rapidly in plankton-rich waters. Juveniles grow quickly, reaching significant size within the first few years.
Fecundity
Extremely high; females can produce up to 30 million eggs per season.
Maturity Age
Matures at around 4-8 years, although this can vary by location.
Faqs about Leedsichthys
Where are Atlantic bluefin tuna found?
Atlantic bluefin tuna are found in the Atlantic Ocean, from the Mediterranean Sea to the Gulf of Mexico, and off the coasts of North America and Europe.
How long do Atlantic bluefin tuna live?
They can live up to 40 years, although many do not reach this age due to fishing pressure.
Are Atlantic bluefin tuna still fished?
Yes, but due to their endangered status, strict regulations and quotas are in place to manage their fishing.
How fast can Atlantic bluefin tuna swim?
Atlantic bluefin tuna are among the fastest fish in the ocean, capable of bursts of speed up to 43 mph (70 km/h).
What is unique about Atlantic bluefin tuna's physiology?
They are warm-blooded, which is unusual for fish, allowing them to maintain a higher body temperature than the surrounding water.
How many eggs can a female bluefin tuna lay?
Females can release millions of eggs per spawning season, up to 30 million.
What is the primary diet of Atlantic bluefin tuna?
Atlantic bluefin tuna primarily feed on smaller fish like herring, mackerel, and sardines, as well as squid and crustaceans.
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