Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) is a saltwater fish of the family Scombridae that grows up to 239 cm.
Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceans, including the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea; oceanic and epipelagic.
Description
The yellowfin tuna is a large, streamlined tuna of the family Scombridae reaching about 2.4 metres. The torpedo-shaped body is metallic blue above and silvery-white below, with conspicuous bright-yellow fins and a row of yellow finlets before the sickle-shaped tail; in large fish the second dorsal and anal fins become greatly elongated. Like other tunas the species is partly warm-blooded and a very fast swimmer. It lives oceanically in warm seas worldwide, including the warmer Atlantic and the Mediterranean, and hunts in fast schools for schooling fish, squid and large crustaceans. The yellowfin is one of the most important commercial and sport fish worldwide; after improved management it is assessed as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowfin tuna?
The Yellowfin tuna has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Large, streamlined tuna with a very long, sickle-shaped second dorsal and anal fin and bright yellow fins and finlets; partly warm-blooded.
Where does the Yellowfin tuna live?
The Yellowfin tuna lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceans, including the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea; oceanic and epipelagic.
How big does the Yellowfin tuna get?
The Yellowfin tuna grows to a maximum of about 239 cm. On average the species is around 150 cm.
Is the Yellowfin tuna dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowfin tuna is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellowfin tuna edible?
Yes, the Yellowfin tuna is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Yellowfin 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 Thunnus
More from the family Scombridae
Want the complete picture on the Yellowfin tuna?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowfin tuna is one of 12,519 species in the app.