Fin's Fish Guide
The Bullet tuna (Auxis rochei) is a saltwater fish of the family Scombridae that grows up to 50 cm.
Worldwide in tropical and temperate seas, including the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea; oceanic and nearshore.
Description
The bullet tuna is a small, bullet-shaped tuna of the family Scombridae reaching about 50 cm. The torpedo-shaped, sturdy body is blue-black above and silvery-white below, with a pattern of dark wavy stripes on the upper back, widely spaced dorsal fins and a row of small separate finlets before the sickle-shaped tail. Like other tunas it is partly warm-blooded and a very fast swimmer. The species lives oceanically and near coasts in warm seas worldwide, including the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, forming fast schools that hunt small schooling fish, squid and crustaceans. The bullet tuna is a valued food fish and is widely used as bait for larger predators.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bullet tuna?
The Bullet tuna has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a marbled pattern. Small, bullet-shaped tuna with widely spaced dorsal fins, a row of finlets in front of the tail and a pattern of dark wavy stripes on the upper back.
Where does the Bullet tuna live?
The Bullet tuna lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Worldwide in tropical and temperate seas, including the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea; oceanic and nearshore.
How big does the Bullet tuna get?
The Bullet tuna grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Bullet tuna dangerous to humans?
No, the Bullet tuna is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bullet tuna edible?
Yes, the Bullet tuna is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Bullet tuna 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 Auxis
More from the family Scombridae
Want the complete picture on the Bullet tuna?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bullet tuna is one of 12,519 species in the app.