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Shortfin Eel
The Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is a highly migratory, predatory fish renowned for its size, speed, and commercial value. It plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem and is a prized catch in fisheries worldwide.
3 8 years
Lifespan
10 - 20 cm
Length
Least Concern
Conservation Status
15 km/h
Swimming speed
Carnivorous
Diet
Local Migration
Migration
Appearance Overview
The Atlantic bluefin tuna is renowned for its large size and streamlined, torpedo-shaped body, perfectly adapted for speed and endurance.
Color
Dark metallic blue on top with a silvery underside
Fins
Two dorsal fins, the first depressible into a groove; small, yellow finlets run down the back and belly.
Body
Torpedo-shaped and incredibly muscular
Length
up to 13 feet (4 meters)
Weight
up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Diet
Carnivorous, feeding on a variety of fish, squid, eels, and crustaceans.
Feeding Behavior
Highly active predator that uses its speed and agility to hunt. They often hunt cooperatively, herding and trapping prey.
Social Behavior
Forms schools, sometimes segregated by size. Highly migratory, capable of crossing entire oceans.
Commercial Relevance
Extremely high value, particularly in the sushi and sashimi markets in Japan. This demand drives significant fishing pressure.
Conservation measures
Subject to international fishing quotas and management plans through organizations like ICCAT. Marine Protected Areas and fishing gear restrictions are also in place in some regions.
Status
Endangered (IUCN)
Threats
Overfishing (historically and ongoing), bycatch in fisheries targeting other species, climate change affecting prey distribution and spawning grounds.
Habitat Distribution
Depth Range
0-3,300 feet (0-1,000 meters), though they spend most of their time in the upper layers of the ocean.
Geographic Range
North Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and formerly the Black Sea.
Preferred Environment
Primarily pelagic, inhabiting temperate and subtropical waters; undertakes long migrations across the Atlantic.
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, feeding on plankton. Juveniles grow quickly, eventually reaching immense sizes.
Fecundity
Females 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.
Faqs about Shortfin Eel
Where can Atlantic bluefin tuna be found?
Atlantic bluefin tuna are found in the Atlantic Ocean, from the eastern coast of North America to the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea.
How long do Atlantic bluefin tuna live?
They can live up to 40 years, although their lifespan can be affected by fishing pressure.
Are Atlantic bluefin tuna warm-blooded?
Atlantic bluefin tuna are warm-blooded, unlike most fish, which allows them to maintain a higher body temperature than the surrounding water. This helps with their speed and endurance.
How deep can Atlantic bluefin tuna dive?
They can dive to depths of over 3,000 feet (900 meters).
Are Atlantic bluefin tuna endangered?
Yes, their high value and demand in sushi markets have led to significant overfishing, making them an endangered species.
What do Atlantic Bluefin Tuna eat?
They are carnivores and eat a wide variety of fish, squid, eels and crustaceans.
How fast is the Atlantic Bluefin Tuna?
Atlantic bluefin tuna are among the fastest fish in the ocean, capable of reaching speeds over 40 mph.
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