Bluefin Tuna

Scientific name: Thunnus thynnus (y especies afines)

Type: Fish Main biome: Marine Environment Difficulty: Alta

Migratory open water predator that needs to travel enormous distances in the open sea.

Quick facts

  • Approximate size2–3 m (some larger)
  • Average weight200–300 kg (with higher records)
  • Life expectancy20–30 years
  • ActivityDiurnal
Bluefin Tuna
Bluefin Tuna

Basic information

  • 🏡Habitat: open ocean and temperate seas, especially the North Atlantic and Mediterranean.
  • 🍏Diet: pelagic fish (anchovies, sardines, mackerel), cephalopods, and other marine animals.
  • 👫Sexual dimorphism: little evident externally.
  • 🐾Predators: orcas, large sharks, and humans, especially through fishing.

Life in the wild

How this species lives in its natural environment, with the waters, shelters and resources it needs.

Species overview

The bluefin tuna is a symbol of both the power of large pelagic fish and the challenges of managing sustainable fisheries.

Natural habitat

It travels large expanses of ocean, alternating fish-rich feeding areas with specific breeding areas.

Behavior

It forms schools and makes long migrations between the Atlantic and Mediterranean, or between different ocean basins.

Special features

Its musculature and circulatory system allow it to swim at high speed and withstand long journeys.

Conservation and threats

It has suffered intense overfishing; thanks to management measures, some populations show signs of recovery, but it remains closely monitored.

Curiosities

Striking details about this species that help better understand its biology and role in aquatic ecosystems.

  • 🌊It can reach very high speeds during pursuits.
  • Its meat is highly valued in gastronomy, which has led to strong historical overfishing.
  • 🔎It is raised in fattening farms in the Mediterranean, starting from specimens captured at sea.
  • 🧭It is capable of maintaining a body temperature somewhat higher than the surrounding water.

Welfare profile

Summary of the most critical points if this species is kept in aquariums, ponds or specialized facilities.

Space and facilitiesHigh

It is not suitable for permanent captivity. It requires enormous volumes of water and massive filtration systems.

Water quality and parametersHigh

It needs open waters with constant movement and stable marine parameters. Closed systems cannot replicate its needs.

Handling and stressHigh

Confinement generates severe stress and abnormal behaviors. Most specimens in captivity do not survive long.

Bluefin Tuna in captivity

General information aimed at professional facilities, public aquariums and educational projects. It does not intend to promote capture or impulsive keeping of aquatic fauna.

⚠️ Before keeping fish like this species, it is essential to review local regulations, ensure adequate facilities and minimize impact on wild populations.

Suitable facilities

Only some very large public aquariums have attempted to keep it temporarily, with generally negative results.

Feeding in responsible centers

It requires large amounts of quality fresh marine food, which is logistically very complex.

Handling and welfare

The best way to know it is through observation in its natural habitat through responsible diving or audiovisual material.

Ethical message

It is essential to educate about sustainable fisheries, responsible fish consumption, and conservation of pelagic species.

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