Northeast Saltwater Fishing

Atlantic Bluefin Tuna

September 7, 2007 on 10:24 am | In Fishing, Marine Species | No Comments

Atlantic bluefin tuna, is regarded as one of the most highly evolved fish species and one of the most prized fish in the ocean. Bluefin usually swim at speeds between 1.5 and 4 kts but can break 20 kts for short periods of time. They are the largest member of the Scombridae Family which includes albacores, bonitos, mackerels, tunas. Bluefin tuna can reach lengths of up to 9 feet, although they are more commonly found from 3ft m in length. Adult can weights anywhere from 300-1500 lbs, although the upper weight range is rare. They can dive as deep as 3000feet, and are known to swim long distances as they are a highly migratory species.

Atlantic bluefins are dark blue to black near the dorsal surface and silvery near the ventral surface. The bluefin is known for the finlets that run down the dorsal and ventrals sides toward the anal fin. There are 12-14 spines in the first dorsal fin and 13-15 rays in the second dorsal fin. The anal fin has 11-15 rays. The average lifespan of bluefin tuna is 15-30 years.
Atlantic bluefin are homeothermic (”warm-blooded”) and are therefore able to thermoregulate keeping their body temperatures higher than the surrounding water, which is why they are so well adapted to colder waters.