Distribution:

Atlantic Ocean: in tropical and temperate waters.

Diagnosis:

Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Dorsal softrays (total): 45-50; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft-rays: 19-23. Body blue-black above and silvery white below, with about 15 rows of pale cobalt-coloured stripes; 1st dorsal fin plain blackish or dark blue, other fins brown black with a tinge of dark blue in some specimens; anal fin bases with a tinge of silvery white. Lateral line a network of interconnecting canals.

Biology:

Oceanic species. Water color affects its occurrence, at least in the northern Gulf of Mexico, where the fish show preference for blue water. Rarely gathers in schools and usually found as scattered single individuals. Feeds mainly on fishes but also preys on octopods and squids. Marketed fresh or frozen.

Max. size: 422.0 cm - 500.0 cm (female)

Max.weight: 150 Kg - 820 Kg (female)

Environment: pelagic

Climate: subtropical; 22 - 31°C; 45°N - 40°S

Canary Islands country information: Name: Picudo Azul