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Yellow Boxfish
The Atlantic bluefin tuna (*Thunnus thynnus*) is a magnificent and highly migratory species of tuna found in the Atlantic Ocean. Renowned for its size, speed, and commercial value, this powerful fish plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. Unfortunately, it's a species under threat.
4 12 years
Lifespan
45 cm
Length
Least Concern
Conservation Status
6 km/h
Swimming speed
Herbivorous, Omnivorous
Diet
Sedentary
Migration
Appearance Overview
The Atlantic bluefin tuna is a large, streamlined fish with a metallic blue body and a silvery underside.
Color
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 the back and belly towards the tail
Keel
Strong lateral keel on the caudal peduncle
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 (such as herring, mackerel, and hake), squid, crustaceans, and eels.
Feeding Behavior
Highly active predator, using speed and agility to hunt. They are opportunistic feeders and can hunt cooperatively, sometimes herding prey.
Social Behavior
Forms large schools, especially when young. Schools can be mixed with other tuna species. They undertake long migrations for feeding and spawning.
Commercial Relevance
Extremely high value, particularly in the sushi and sashimi markets of Japan. It is also prized in other culinary traditions.
Conservation measures
Subject to international fishing quotas and regulations managed by organizations like ICCAT. Marine Protected Areas and gear restrictions are also in place in some regions.
Status
Endangered (IUCN)
Threats
Severe overfishing, driven by high demand for sushi. Bycatch in other fisheries, climate change affecting prey distribution, and habitat degradation also pose threats.
Habitat Distribution
Depth Range
0-1,000 meters (0-3,280 feet), most commonly in the upper layers of the water column.
Geographic Range
Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico. They have two main spawning grounds: the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.
Preferred Environment
Pelagic, open ocean waters, both temperate and subtropical. They are highly migratory.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding Habits
Spawns in warm waters, with two main spawning grounds: the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. Spawning typically occurs in spring and summer.
Development Stages
Eggs are pelagic and hatch into larvae. Larvae are planktonic and undergo rapid growth. Juveniles school together and gradually develop into adults.
Fecundity
Highly fecund; 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 Yellow Boxfish
Where can I find Atlantic bluefin tuna?
Atlantic bluefin tuna are found in the Atlantic Ocean, from the Mediterranean Sea to the Gulf of Mexico, and from Newfoundland to Brazil.
How long do Atlantic bluefin tuna live?
Atlantic bluefin tuna can live up to 40 years.
Is it illegal to fish for Atlantic bluefin tuna?
Yes, due to their endangered status, fishing for Atlantic bluefin tuna is heavily regulated and restricted in many areas.
Are Atlantic bluefin tuna warm-blooded?
Atlantic bluefin tuna are warm-blooded, unlike most fish, which helps them maintain high body temperatures for speed and endurance.
How fast can Atlantic bluefin tuna swim?
They can swim at speeds up to 43 mph (70 km/h) in short bursts.
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