The Atlantic bluefin tuna is one of the largest and fastest fish in the ocean. Overfishing brought it close to collapse, but strict catch limits since the late 2000s have allowed eastern populations to recover.
Interesting facts
- Bluefin tuna cross the Atlantic Ocean on long migrations.
- They breed in the Gulf of Mexico and the Mediterranean Sea.
- Their streamlined bodies and retractable fins reduce drag.
- They are highly prized for sushi and sashimi, especially in Japan.
- In 2019, a Pacific bluefin tuna sold in Tokyo for over US$3 million.
- Bluefin have returned to waters off Norway, the UK and Ireland in recent years.
Behaviour
Bluefin tuna hunt in schools, chasing shoals of fish at high speed. They dive to depths of over 1,000 metres and tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Breeding and young
Females release millions of eggs into warm surface waters during the spawning season. Very few of the young survive to adulthood.
Threats and conservation
Overfishing and illegal fishing, especially for high-value sushi markets. Continued strict management is needed to maintain recovery.
Where to see it
- Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia, Canada
- Coasts of Ireland and Cornwall in late summer and autumn
- Strait of Gibraltar
- Public aquariums with large ocean tanks
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
