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Atlantic Bluefin Tuna
Thunnus thynnus
Also known as: Bluefin, Giant Tuna
Atlantic Bluefin Tuna is one of the largest and most valuable fish in the world. A single fish has sold for over $3 million at Tokyo fish markets. However, decades of overfishing have severely depleted populations.
Max Size
10 feet (3 m)
Lifespan
35-50 years
Depth
0-1,000 meters
Water Type
saltwater
Scientific Classification
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Scombriformes
- Family
- Scombridae
- Species
- Thunnus thynnus
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat
Open oceanTemperate waters
Distribution
Atlantic OceanMediterranean Sea
Behavior
Bluefin tuna are highly migratory, crossing entire oceans. They are warm-blooded fish that can maintain body temperatures higher than surrounding water, allowing them to hunt in cold waters.
Reproduction
Females can produce up to 30 million eggs per year. They spawn in the Mediterranean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Juveniles grow rapidly but mature slowly.
Conservation Status
EndangeredPopulation trend: increasing
Main Threats
- Overfishing
- High demand for sushi
🎉 Fun Facts
- A single bluefin sold for $3.1 million in 2019
- They can swim up to 43 mph
- Bluefin can regulate their body temperature
- They can dive to 3,000 feet
- They can cross the Atlantic in under 60 days
