The Longtail Tuna, scientifically known as Thunnus tonggol, is a species of tuna found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. This fish is a highly migratory species, often traversing vast distances in search of food and ideal conditions.
Description & Characteristics
The Longtail Tuna, Thunnus tonggol, is characterized by its streamlined body, which aids in swift and efficient swimming. This species typically reaches a maximum size of 145.0 cm. Its body is covered in small scales, and it possesses a distinct forked tail fin. The color of the Longtail Tuna can vary depending on its location and age, but generally, it has a dark blue or black back, silvery sides, and a white belly.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Longtail Tuna, Thunnus tonggol, is a highly migratory species found in both coastal and oceanic waters. It is commonly encountered in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans. This fish prefers warm waters, often inhabiting areas with water temperatures ranging from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. The Longtail Tuna can be found in a variety of marine zones, including the epipelagic zone (the sunlit surface layer of the ocean), the mesopelagic zone (the twilight zone), and the neritic zone (the waters over the continental shelf).
Taxonomy
The species Thunnus tonggol belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Scombriformes, and Family: Scombridae. Teleostei is the most diverse group of fishes, encompassing over 20,000 species. The Scombriformes order contains the tunas, mackerels, and bonitos, all known for their streamlined bodies and swift swimming abilities. The Scombridae family, which includes Thunnus tonggol, consists of the tuna species that are prized for their culinary value and sport fishing appeal.
Feeding
The Longtail Tuna, Thunnus tonggol, is a carnivorous species. It primarily feeds on a diet of crustaceans and small fish, including various types of squid, shrimp, and smaller pelagic fish. This fish is an opportunistic feeder, adapting its diet to the available prey in its environment. It is known to be a fast and aggressive predator, capable of chasing down its prey with great speed.
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