Fin's Fish Guide
The Albacore (Scomberomorus commerson) is a saltwater fish of the family Scombridae that grows up to 240 cm.
Indo-West Pacific; edge of the continental shelf and around reefs, highly migratory.
Description
The narrow-barred Spanish mackerel is a large Spanish mackerel of the family Scombridae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 2.4 metres and has a streamlined, torpedo-shaped, silvery body with numerous narrow, wavy grey crossbars on the flank. It is a pelagic species occurring near the edge of the continental shelf and around reefs, migrating long distances. As a fast, powerful apex predator it hunts small schooling fishes, squid and shrimps. The narrow-barred Spanish mackerel is a very important commercial and sport fish; owing to fishing it is listed as Near Threatened (NT). The razor-sharp teeth can cause cuts when handling.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Albacore?
The Albacore has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Narrow, wavy grey vertical bars; highly migratory commercial top predator with sharp teeth, Near Threatened (NT). Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Albacore live?
The Albacore lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Indo-West Pacific; edge of the continental shelf and around reefs, highly migratory.
How big does the Albacore get?
The Albacore grows to a maximum of about 240 cm. On average the species is around 120 cm.
Is the Albacore dangerous to humans?
The Albacore is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Not venomous, but the razor-sharp teeth can cause cuts when handling; keep fingers away from the mouth of a caught or hooked fish. Clean any wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Albacore edible?
Yes, the Albacore is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Albacore and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scomberomorus
More from the family Scombridae
Want the complete picture on the Albacore?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Albacore is one of 12,519 species in the app.