Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic black skipjack (Euthynnus alletteratus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Scombridae that grows up to 122 cm.
Warm and temperate parts of the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea.
Description
The little tunny is a fast-swimming mackerel relative of warm and temperate parts of the Atlantic and adjacent seas, including the Mediterranean. It has a torpedo-shaped, muscular body, can grow to over a metre and hunts in schools close inshore. As an opportunistic predator it eats almost anything: crustaceans, fishes (especially herring-like species), squids and tunicates. Its back bears a pattern of dark, wavy stripes and the flank a few dark spots. The species is fished commercially, although there are reports of ciguatera poisoning. It is generally harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic black skipjack?
The Atlantic black skipjack has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a flame-patterned pattern. Winding dark stripes on the back and a few dark blotches below the pectoral fin. Note: in tropical regions this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large individuals of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Atlantic black skipjack live?
The Atlantic black skipjack lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Warm and temperate parts of the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea.
How big does the Atlantic black skipjack get?
The Atlantic black skipjack grows to a maximum of about 122 cm. On average the species is around 80 cm.
Is the Atlantic black skipjack dangerous to humans?
The Atlantic black skipjack is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If symptoms of ciguatera poisoning appear after eating (tingling, gastrointestinal upset), seek medical help. There is no specific antidote; treatment is supportive.
Is the Atlantic black skipjack edible?
Yes, the Atlantic black skipjack is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Atlantic black skipjack and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic black skipjack?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic black skipjack is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Euthynnus
More from the family Scombridae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic black skipjack?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic black skipjack is one of 12,519 species in the app.