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Animal profile

Atlantic Bluefin Tuna

Thunnus thynnus

ActinopterygiiOpen waters of the North Atlantic and Mediterranean, from cold northern feeding grounds to warm subtropical spawning areasLeast Concern

Field profile

The Atlantic bluefin is the largest tuna, reaching well over 400 kilograms. It crosses ocean basins, tolerates water temperatures that would immobilise most fish of its size, and commands extraordinary prices at auction. Its global assessment improved to Least Concern in 2021 after decades of decline and rebuilding measures.

Scope note

This is an editorial profile, not a diagnostic field-identification guide or a substitute for current conservation assessments. Follow the cited sources on each fact for the evidence trail.

Published field notes

2023-07-23

Atlantic Bluefin Tuna

Bluefin tuna keep themselves warmer than the sea

Bluefin are endothermic in a limited way. Counter-current heat exchangers called retia mirabilia trap the heat their swimming muscles produce, letting core temperature run well above the surrounding water and letting the fish hunt in cold northern seas.

Read with evidence →

Atlantic Bluefin Tuna | Daily Animal Facts