The Extinction of the Atlantic Bluefin Tuna
A Mighty King in the Sea may be Nearing the End of His Reign
Nov 8, 2009 Christopher Clayton
Because of a potent, innate combination the Atlantic Bluefin Tuna is on the brink of extinction. This Tuna is the largest in the family and very strong, making it a challenge for any sport fisherman. The second factor is that the flesh of this fish is delicious. With reduced amounts of large fish in the sea the price obtained for one fish makes the challenge to catch one even more appealing.
Appearance of the Bluefin
The Atlantic Bluefin is the largest member in its family. The fish is typically around 6 feet long but larger ones have been caught. The fish typically weigh about 600 pounds but the current record is over 1400 pounds. The Bluefin gets its name from the dark blue fin located on its top with its bottom section consisting of a silver grey color. This helps the fin blend into their environment in open waters and decrease attacks from above and below.
Feeding Behavior of the Bluefin
The Bluefin is a carnivore and an opportunistic eater. Their preferred food is smaller fish like mackerel, herring, and flying fish but this is not the limit of their appetite. They will also eat squid, eels, and crustaceans. For the Bluefin to gain its great size, it needs to expand the amount of items on its menu. They have been seen to filter-feed on small organisms as they make their migrations. Bluefins will also eat kelp along the way.
Typically Waters of the Bluefin
Bluefins have a wide range throughout the oceans but there are areas with a higher population. One area is in the Gulf of Mexico in the western Atlantic. The Bluefins in this area tend to grow a little larger than those in the second area. The other large population of Bluefins is in the Mediterranean Sea. These eastern Atlantic Bluefins are a little smaller but still offer a good challenge for sport fisherman.
Threat to the Bluefin
Overfishing continues to be the greatest threat to these mighty fish. The price of the Bluefin is at an all time high in Japan. Sport and commerical fishermen alike can benefit greatly with one large catch. Fishing juveniles and adults during spawning seasons also cause detrimental damage to the Bluefin population.
Without protective laws and more actions focused on conservation, these giants of the sea are nearing the end of their rule. The thrill of the catch can be very exciting and the potential payout is often too great of a tempation to resist.
Source:
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (2009). FishWatch-U.S. Seafood Facts. Retrieved November 8, 2009, from http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/fishwatch/species/atl_bluefin_tuna.htm
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