Introduction
The Longtail Tuna, scientifically known as Thunnus tonggol, is a species from the Scombridae family. Known for its significant value in commercial fishing and sport fishing, it is a highly sought-after catch for many anglers.
Conservation Status
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Longtail Tuna is currently under the category of “Least Concern”. Various local and international conservation efforts are in place to manage the species, without specific programmes targeted directly at the Longtail Tuna community.
Statistics
| Average | Range | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 1.26m | 0.5 – 1.4m |
| Weight | 25 kg | 10 – 35 kg |
| Average Lifespan | 15 years |
Distribution
Longtail Tuna are widely distributed throughout the Indian and Western Pacific oceans. They migrate following the monsoon currents and waters’ temperature changes.
Habitats
Longtail Tuna are pelagic fish, predominantly residing in surface oceanic waters. They thrive in a wide range of temperatures and depths, typically found between 0 and 200 m depth.
When and Where to See
Longtail Tuna can be spotted year-round. However, they are more commonly sighted during the monsoon season where they migrate in large numbers.
Best Fishing Locations
- The Gulf of Oman
- The Persian Gulf
- Northwestern Australia
- Andaman Sea
- Bay of Bengal
- South China Sea
- Indonesian and Philippine waters
- Malaysian coast
How to Catch
The Longtail Tuna mainly feeds on small fish and squids, making them the preferred bait. Trolling or casting using surface lures is the most effective technique to catch these species.
Identification Guide
The Longtail Tuna has a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body. It is dark blue above and silvery white below, with colorless, curved lines on sides.
Culinary
Longtail Tuna flesh is highly prized for its flavor and texture. It can be grilled, baked, or used in sushi. Its taste is rich, with a firm texture and moderate fat content.
Additional Information
Longtail Tuna are known for their strong fight when hooked, making them a popular choice for sport fishing. Predators include larger fish like sharks and other bigger tuna species. Cultural significance of Longtail Tuna varies by region, with some cultures considering it a totem or a symbol of prosperity.
References and Further Reading
For more information on Longtail Tuna, consult dedicated marine biology resources and encyclopedias. You may also explore the documents of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS)