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Amberjack
The Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is a highly migratory, large pelagic fish renowned for its size, speed, and commercial value. It is a top predator in the marine ecosystem, playing a crucial role in regulating populations of smaller fish and invertebrates. This species has been prized for centuries, particularly in Japanese cuisine.
5 15 years
Lifespan
100 - 200 cm
Length
Least Concern
Conservation Status
43 km/h
Swimming speed
Carnivorous
Diet
Seasonal Migration
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
Dark metallic blue on top, silvery-white underside
Fins
Two dorsal fins, the first depressible; small, yellow finlets running from the second dorsal and anal fins to the tail
Body Shape
Torpedo-shaped, streamlined for speed
Length
Up to 13 feet (4 meters), commonly around 6.5 feet (2 meters)
Weight
Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg), commonly around 550 lbs (250 kg)
Diet
Carnivorous, feeding on a variety of fish (such as herring, mackerel, and hake), squid, and crustaceans.
Feeding Behavior
Highly active predator, using speed and agility to hunt. Often hunts cooperatively, herding and surrounding prey.
Social Behavior
Forms large schools, often segregated by size. Highly migratory, capable of crossing entire oceans.
Commercial Relevance
Extremely high value, especially in sushi and sashimi markets. One of the most expensive fish species globally.
Conservation measures
Subject to international fishing quotas and management plans through 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, climate change affecting prey distribution and spawning grounds.
Habitat Distribution
Depth Range
Primarily epipelagic and mesopelagic zones, from the surface to depths of over 3,280 feet (1,000 meters).
Geographic Range
Found throughout the North Atlantic Ocean, including the Mediterranean Sea. Key populations exist in the western Atlantic (Gulf of Mexico) and eastern Atlantic/Mediterranean.
Preferred Environment
Prefers temperate and subtropical waters. Spawning occurs in warmer waters, while feeding grounds are often in cooler, productive regions.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding Habits
Spawns in two main areas: the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. Spawning typically occurs from May to June in the Mediterranean and from April to June in the Gulf of Mexico.
Development Stages
Eggs are pelagic (free-floating). Larvae develop rapidly, feeding on plankton. Juveniles grow quickly, reaching significant size within their first year.
Fecundity
Highly fecund; a single female can release up to 30 million eggs per spawning season.
Maturity Age
Reaches sexual maturity relatively late, around 4-8 years of age, depending on the population (eastern vs. western Atlantic).
Faqs about Amberjack
Where are Atlantic bluefin tuna found?
Atlantic bluefin tuna are found in the Atlantic Ocean, ranging from the Mediterranean Sea to the Gulf of Mexico and the coasts of North America and Europe.
How far do bluefin tuna migrate?
They are highly migratory and can travel thousands of miles. They are known to cross the Atlantic Ocean.
How long do Atlantic bluefin tuna live?
Atlantic bluefin tuna can live up to 40 years.
What is the biggest threat to bluefin tuna?
The main threat is overfishing, driven by high demand in the seafood market, especially for sushi.
Are bluefin tuna warm-blooded?
Bluefin tuna are warm-blooded, unlike most fish, which allows them to maintain a higher body temperature than the surrounding water. This helps them survive in a wide range of water temperatures and hunt effectively.
What do bluefin tuna eat?
They primarily feed on a variety of smaller fish, squid, and crustaceans. They are opportunistic predators.
Are bluefin tuna fast swimmers?
Yes, they are among the fastest fish in the ocean, capable of reaching speeds up to 43 mph (70 km/h) in short bursts.
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