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Flathead mullet
The Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is a highly migratory, large pelagic fish renowned for its size, speed, and commercial value. As one of the largest bony fishes, it plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. This species is also known as the northern bluefin tuna.
4 16 years
Lifespan
50 - 100 cm
Length
Least Concern
Conservation Status
8 km/h
Swimming speed
Detritivorous, Omnivorous
Diet
Catadromous
Migration
Appearance Overview
The Atlantic bluefin tuna is a large, torpedo-shaped fish with a metallic blue-black back and a silvery-white belly.
Color
Dark metallic blue on top, silvery-white underside
Body Shape
Torpedo-shaped, streamlined
Fins
Two dorsal fins, the first depressible; small finlets running from dorsal and anal fins to tail
Keels
Strong keels on the tail base
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, hunts by sight and uses speed to capture prey. It can dive to significant depths and sometimes feeds cooperatively.
Social Behavior
Forms large schools, often segregated by size. Highly migratory, capable of crossing entire oceans.
Commercial Relevance
Extremely high value, especially in the sushi and sashimi markets, where a single fish can fetch tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Also popular in sport fishing
Conservation measures
Subject to international fishing quotas and regulations managed by organizations like ICCAT. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and fishing gear restrictions are also in place.
Status
Endangered (IUCN)
Threats
Overfishing (historically and ongoing), bycatch in fisheries targeting other species, habitat degradation, and climate change affecting prey distribution and spawning grounds.
Habitat Distribution
Depth Range
0-1,000 meters (0-3,280 feet), most commonly in the epipelagic zone.
Geographic Range
Western and Eastern Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and formerly in the Black Sea.
Preferred Environment
Temperate and subtropical waters; pelagic, open ocean environments, but also coastal areas during spawning season.
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 are planktonic. Juveniles grow rapidly, feeding on small fish and invertebrates. They gradually transition to the adult diet and behavior.
Fecundity
Highly fecund; a single female can produce up to 30 million eggs per spawning season.
Maturity Age
Reaches sexual maturity at around 4-8 years of age, although this can vary depending on location and environmental conditions.
Faqs about Flathead mullet
How long do Atlantic bluefin tuna live?
The Atlantic bluefin tuna can live up to 40 years.
Do Atlantic bluefin tuna migrate?
Yes, they are highly migratory and can cross the Atlantic Ocean in less than 60 days.
Are Atlantic bluefin tuna warm-blooded?
Atlantic bluefin tuna are warm-blooded, which is unusual among fish. This allows them to maintain a higher body temperature than the surrounding water, aiding in muscle efficiency.
How many eggs can a female bluefin tuna lay?
Females can release up to 30 million eggs per spawning season.
Where are Atlantic bluefin tuna found?
They are found in the western and eastern Atlantic Ocean, as well as the Mediterranean Sea.
Do Atlantic bluefin tuna have predators?
They are an apex predator, but young bluefin tuna can be preyed upon by sharks, larger fish and seabirds.
Why is Atlantic bluefin tuna so expensive?
Atlantic bluefin tuna is a highly prized fish for sushi and sashimi due to its fatty, flavorful flesh.
When do Atlantic bluefin tuna reach maturity?
They reach sexual maturity between 4 and 8 years of age.
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