Distribution:

Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans. Eastern Pacific population recognized as subspecies A. thazard brachydorax. Many authors have used the name A. thazard as including A. rochei in the belief that there was only a single worldwide species of Auxis. Highly migratory species, Annex I of the 1982 Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Diagnosis:

Dorsal spines (total): 10-12; Dorsal softrays (total): 10-13; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft-rays: 10-14

Biology:

Epipelagic in neritic and oceanic waters. Feeds on small fish, squids, planktonic crustaceans (megalops), and stomatopod larvae. Because of their abundance, they are considered an important element of the food web, particularly as forage for other species of commercial interest. Preyed upon by larger fishes, including other tunas. Marketed fresh and frozen; also utilized dried/salted, smoked and canned.

Max. size: 65.0 cm

Max.weight: 1,080.0 g

Environment: pelagic; depth range - 50 m

Climate: tropical; 27 - 28°C; 61°N - 47°S

Canary Islands country information: Name: Melba