Thonine Noire

Anterior spines of first dorsal fin much higher than those mid-way, giving the fin a strongly concave outline. Interpelvic process small and bifid. Body naked except for corselet and lateral line. Swim bladder absent. A large rounded protuberances on 31st and 32nd vertebrae. Color is generally iridescent blue with black dorsal markings composed of 3 to 5 horizontal stripes. Also with variable black or dark gray spots above the pelvic fins. Occasionally with extensive longitudinal stripes of light gray on belly; some individuals have few or no belly markings.

Oceanodromous. Migrating within oceans typically between spawning and different feeding areas, as tunas do. Migrations should be cyclical and predictable and cover more than 100 km.

Dorsal spines (total): 1015; Analsoft rays: 11 - 12; Vertebrae: 37

Differential abundance by season suggests a pattern of north-south migrations, which are not yet fully understood. Like in the first quarter of the year, they are found off Central America northwards to the tip of Baja California. In the second quarter, they are abundant in the northern part of this range. In the third quarter, they are found in western Baja California and in the fourth, from Baja California to northern Peru.

Occurs rarely where surface temperatures fall below 23°C. Its larvae are more frequently encountered at temperatures above 26°C and are practically confined to waters within about 240 miles off the mainland. Inhabits near the surface of coastal waters and offshore waters (Ref. 11035). Form multi-species schools with Thunnus albacares and Katsuwonus pelamis. An opportunistic predator which shares feeding pattern with other tunas and probably compete for food with other species such as yellowfin tuna, common dolphin, oriental bonito, among others.

fisheries: minor commercial; gamefish: yes; price category: high; price reliability: reliable: based on ex-vessel price for this species