Target Species

Skipjack

Skipjack (Katsuwonus pelamis) are found mainly in tropical areas of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans. Its geographical boundaries are 55° to 60° N and 45° to 50° S, with the highest abundance seen in equatorial waters. Five stocks are assessed and managed by the RFMOs: East Atlantic Ocean, West Atlantic Ocean, Eastern Pacific Ocean, Western Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean.

Skipjack, the smallest of the main commercial species of tuna, can be found in free schools or associated with floating objects.

Yellowfin

Yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) are found in the subtropical and tropical areas of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans. Its geographical limits are between 45°-50 ° N and South, although in the Pacific Ocean it occurs mainly between 20° N and south. Four stocks are assessed and managed by the RFMOs: Atlantic Ocean, Eastern Pacific Ocean, Western Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean.

Yellowfin can be found in free and associated schools. Free schools tend to hold large individuals and are mono-specific.

Bigeye

Bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) are found in tropical and subtropical areas of the Atlantic (but not in the Mediterranean), Indian and Pacific Oceans. Its geographical limits range from 55°-60° N and 45°-50° S. Juveniles are found in the equatorial region while adults are found at higher latitudes. Four stocks are assessed and managed by the RFMOs: Atlantic Ocean, Eastern Pacific Ocean, Western Pacific Ocean, and Indian Ocean.

Bigeye are found in free schools or associated with floating objects, where it mixes with skipjack and yellowfin tuna.