Albacore

The bigeye tuna, <em>Thunnus obesus</em>, is a large, commercially important member of the family Scombridae, capable of reaching 250 cm in length and weighing up to approximately 210 kg. This saltwater species has a remarkable depth range, documented from near the surface down to 1,500 metres — deeper than most other tunas — and undertakes daily vertical migrations, feeding at depth during daylight hours. Found throughout tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans, bigeye tuna are apex predators that consume a wide variety of fishes, squids, and crustaceans. They are a premier target for offshore big-game anglers and are sought with deep-set longlines, trolling gear, and heavy tackle. The flesh is prized in the premium sashimi market, particularly in Japan. Bigeye tuna are assessed as Vulnerable by the IUCN, reflecting longstanding pressure from industrial longline fisheries across their range.