Distribution:

Atlantic: widely distributed in offshore waters, much more densely so in the western than in the eastern Atlantic. Highly migratory species, Annex I of the 1982 Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Diagnosis:

Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Dorsal softrays (total): 50-57; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft-rays: 18-21; Vertebrates: 24-24. Blue-black above, silvery white splattered with brown on the sides, silvery white below; dorsal fins dark blue; pectorals blackish brown, occasionally with tinges of greyish white; pelvics blue-black with a black fin membrane; 1st anal fin dark blue with silvery white at base; 2nd anal fin blackish brown.

Biology:

Oceanic species, chiefly found in offshore waters, usually above the thermocline. Feeds mainly on pelagic fishes and squids. Marketed frozen.

Max. size: 250.0 cm

Max.weight: 45 Kg

Environment: pelagic; depth range - 100 m

Climate: subtropical; 40°N - 35°S

Canary Islands country information: Name: Agujon