Yellowfin Tuna

(Thunnus albacares)

 

 

Maturity at: 78 cm in length

Max Published Size: 239 cm and 440 pounds

TnT Record: 142 pounds (unofficial)

TnT Season: Year round

IUCN status: Near threatened

 

 

General Information: Mainly oceanic and rarely seen near reefs. They school by size, either in monospecific or multi-species groups. Larger fish are known to school with porpoises, also found near floating debris and other objects. They eat fish, crustaceans and squids. They are normally found from the surface down to 300 ft. They can navigate great distances, and are known to cross entire oceans.  Peak spawning occurs during the summer, in batches. Eggs and larvae are pelagic. Mostly caught by nets and longliners worldwide.  Very important in the sport fishing industry. Marketed mainly frozen and canned, but also fresh and smoked. Highly valued for sashimi.  In Trinidad and Tobago waters is common to find small to medium sized individuals with larger ones being occasional.