Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scombridae that grows up to 250 cm.
Description
The bigeye tuna is a large, fast open-water predator found worldwide in tropical and subtropical seas but absent from the Mediterranean. The species reaches about 250 cm and has a powerful, torpedo-shaped body, conspicuously large eyes and long pectoral fins. It can dive to great depths and hunts fish, squid and crustaceans by day and night. It is a highly important commercial tuna and prized gamefish. Owing to overfishing the IUCN assesses the species as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye tuna?
The Bigeye tuna has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Powerful torpedo-shaped body with large eyes; deep-diving commercial tuna
Where does the Bigeye tuna live?
The Bigeye tuna lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Worldwide (tropical/subtropical)
How big does the Bigeye tuna get?
The Bigeye tuna grows to a maximum of about 250 cm. On average the species is around 180 cm.
Is the Bigeye tuna dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye tuna is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Bigeye tuna edible?
Yes, the Bigeye tuna is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Bigeye tuna and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Bigeye tuna?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigeye tuna is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Thunnus
More from the family Scombridae
Want the complete picture on the Bigeye tuna?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigeye tuna is one of 12,519 species in the app.