YellowFin Tuna

Description of the Yellowfin Tuna

True to its name Yellowfin Tuna, this species has a yellowish tint to its fins. Of these yellow fins, the pectoral fins on either side of the fish grow somewhat larger than other related species. Additionally, you can recognize this fish by the lengthy second dorsal and anal fins that curve up and backwards from its body.

Though this species is not the largest of the various tunas, it does reach impressive sizes. Particularly hefty individuals can surpass 400 lbs. and measure up to 7.8 ft. long.

Yellowfin tuna are torpedo-shaped with dark metallic blue backs, yellow sides, and a silver belly. They have very long anal and dorsal fins and finlets that are bright yellow. Yellowfin can live up to six or seven years. They are highly migratory and are found throughout the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans. They form schools with other tunas like skipjack and bigeye, and are also known to associate with dolphins. Yellowfin are able to breed year-round.

Yellowfin are an important commercial tuna species, particularly the raw sashimi market. Although tuna do provide food and livelihoods for people, they are more than just seafood. Tuna are a top predator in the marine food chain, maintaining a balance in the ocean environment.

Habitat of the Yellowfin Tuna

This species inhabits pelagic waters, or areas not associated directly with the shore or the sea floor. More specifically, these open ocean fish prefer epipelagic zones, which consist of regions only as deep as light penetrates. Most live between the surface and 330 ft. deep.

Distribution

You can find this species in oceans worldwide. They live in regions with tropical, subtropical, or temperate climates. Some also range into areas close to the coast, particularly in areas with deep drop-offs right off shore. You can find these fish in the Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean, and more. To learn more about Yellowfin Tuna, click here!