World Tuna Day
World Tuna Day
World Tuna Day was first celebrated on May 2nd, 2017, after the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution to establish this observance. The resolution recognized the importance of tuna and other related species to the economic and social well-being of many countries and regions around the world, particularly those that rely on tuna fishing and processing for employment and livelihoods. Marine Stewardship Council's 2023 theme for World Tuna Day is “Yes We Can” .
Tuna are among the most commercially important fish species in the world, with global catch levels exceeding 7 million tons per year. Tuna are also an important source of protein for millions of people around the world, particularly in developing countries where fish is a staple food. However, many tuna populations have been overfished, and some are now considered to be at risk of collapse.
The main objective of World Tuna Day is to raise awareness about the importance of managing tuna stocks sustainably and to promote the conservation and responsible use of these resources. This includes measures such as implementing effective fisheries management plans, reducing bycatch, and combating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
World Tuna Day also serves as an opportunity to highlight the challenges faced by small-scale and artisanal fishers, who often face barriers to accessing the resources and markets they need to sustain their livelihoods. The observance also recognizes the important role of women in the tuna fishing and processing sectors, who often play key roles in the value chain but may face discrimination and lack of access to resources.
World Tuna Day is an important observance that aims to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable tuna fishing practices and the conservation of these important marine resources. It highlights the economic and social significance of tuna fishing and processing for many communities around the world, and the need to ensure that these resources are managed responsibly and sustainably for future generations.
There are over a dozen species of tuna. Here is a list of all known species of tuna:
1. Albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga)
2. Bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus)
3. Blackfin tuna (Thunnus atlanticus)
4. Bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus)
5. Bullet tuna (Auxis roche)
6. Dogtooth tuna (Gymnosarda unicolor)
7. Frigate tuna (Auxis thazard)
8. Kawakawa tuna (Euthynnus affinis)
9. Little tunny (Euthynnus alletteratus)
10. Longtail tuna (Thunnus tonggol)
11. Northern bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis)
12. Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis)
13. Skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis)
14. Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii)
15. Yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares)
It's worth noting that some of these species are more commonly caught and consumed than others, and some species are at greater risk of overfishing and population decline. It's important to choose sustainably sourced tuna and support responsible fishing practices to help protect these important species.
Albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga)
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| source - fishIDER |
Albacore tuna, also known as Thunnus alalunga, is a species of tuna that is found in temperate and tropical waters around the world. They are known for their distinct white meat, which is tender and mild in flavor.
Albacore tuna are one of the smaller species of tuna, typically growing to around 3 feet in length and weighing up to 60 pounds. They have a torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-green back and silver sides and belly.
These fish are highly migratory and can be found in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as the Mediterranean and Black Seas. They are typically found in open waters, often in large schools, and feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Albacore tuna are commercially important and are often used for canning due to their high-quality meat. They are also popular among recreational anglers and are targeted for sportfishing. However, like many other species of tuna, they are facing significant pressure from overfishing and habitat destruction, and their populations are declining in some regions.
Bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus)
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| source - fishIDER |
Bigeye tuna, also known as Thunnus obesus, is a species of tuna found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They are known for their large size and prized for their high-quality meat.
Bigeye tuna are larger than most other tuna species, with individuals reaching up to 8 feet in length and weighing over 400 pounds. They have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly. Their large eyes are a distinguishing feature, hence their name.
These fish are also highly migratory and are found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They are typically found in deeper waters, often near seamounts and underwater ridges, and feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Bigeye tuna are a popular target for commercial fishing due to their large size and high-quality meat, which is sold fresh or frozen for sashimi, sushi, and other premium seafood products. They are also a popular target for sportfishing due to their size and strength. However, like many other species of tuna, they are facing significant pressure from overfishing and habitat destruction, and their populations are declining in some regions.
Blackfin tuna (Thunnus atlanticus)
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| source - wikimedia common |
Blackfin tuna, also known as Thunnus atlanticus, is a species of tuna found in the western Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. They are smaller than many other species of tuna and are often used for bait or consumed locally.
Blackfin tuna typically grow to around 2 feet in length and weigh up to 30 pounds. They have a sleek, streamlined body with dark metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly. They are often confused with another small tuna species, the skipjack tuna.
These fish are also highly migratory and are found in the western Atlantic Ocean, from Massachusetts to Brazil, and the Gulf of Mexico. They are typically found in shallower waters than some of the larger tuna species, often near reefs and other structures, and feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Blackfin tuna are important in both commercial and recreational fisheries. They are often used as bait for larger tuna species or sold locally for consumption, particularly in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico regions. They are also a popular target for sportfishing due to their size and fighting ability. While their populations are generally considered stable, they are still vulnerable to overfishing and habitat destruction.
Bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus)
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| source - wikipedia |
Bluefin tuna, also known as Thunnus thynnus, is a species of tuna found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They are one of the largest and most valuable fish in the world, prized for their high-quality meat and sought after by commercial and recreational fishermen alike.
Bluefin tuna are among the largest tuna species, with individuals reaching up to 10 feet in length and weighing over 1,000 pounds. They have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly.
These fish are highly migratory and are found throughout the world's oceans, from the Gulf of Mexico to the Mediterranean Sea to the waters off Japan. They are typically found in deeper waters, often near seamounts and underwater ridges, and feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Bluefin tuna are highly valued in both commercial and recreational fisheries, with the majority of the catch being used for sashimi, sushi, and other high-end seafood products. However, their populations have declined significantly in recent years due to overfishing, and they are now considered to be endangered or critically endangered in some regions. As a result, efforts are underway to reduce fishing pressure on this species and promote sustainable fishing practices.
Bullet tuna (Auxis rochei)
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| source - fishIDER |
Bullet tuna, also known as Auxis rochei, is a small species of tuna found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They are one of the smallest tuna species, with individuals typically growing to around 12 inches in length and weighing up to 3 pounds.
Bullet tuna have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly. They have a pointed head and a series of small finlets along their back and sides.
These fish are highly migratory and are found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, as well as the Mediterranean and Black Seas. They are typically found in open waters, often in large schools, and feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Bullet tuna are primarily used for canning and are also consumed fresh or frozen in some regions. They are not as highly valued as some of the larger tuna species, but are still an important commercial and subsistence fishery in many parts of the world. Despite their relatively high reproductive capacity, they are still vulnerable to overfishing and habitat destruction, and their populations are declining in some regions.
Dogtooth tuna (Gymnosarda unicolor)
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| source - fishIDER |
Dogtooth tuna, also known as Gymnosarda unicolor, is a large predatory fish found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They are one of the largest species of tuna, with individuals reaching up to 8 feet in length and weighing over 200 pounds.
Dogtooth tuna have a distinctive appearance, with a deep, elongated body and large, conical teeth. They have a metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly, and often have a yellow tint to their fins and tail.
These fish are highly migratory and are found in a range of habitats, from shallow reefs to deep offshore waters. They are apex predators, feeding on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Dogtooth tuna are an important target for both commercial and recreational fisheries. They are prized for their high-quality meat and large size, and are often sold fresh or frozen for sashimi, sushi, and other premium seafood products. However, like many other species of tuna, they are facing significant pressure from overfishing and habitat destruction, and their populations are declining in some regions. As a result, efforts are underway to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect their habitats.
Frigate tuna (Auxis thazard)
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| source - fishIDER |
Frigate tuna, also known as Auxis thazard, is a small species of tuna found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They are one of the most common tuna species and are often caught as bycatch in other fisheries.
Frigate tuna have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly. They have a pointed head and a series of small finlets along their back and sides, similar to bullet tuna.
These fish are highly migratory and are found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, as well as the Mediterranean and Black Seas. They are typically found in open waters, often in large schools, and feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Frigate tuna are primarily used for canning and are also consumed fresh or frozen in some regions. They are not as highly valued as some of the larger tuna species, but are still an important commercial and subsistence fishery in many parts of the world. Due to their high reproductive capacity, they are generally considered to be a more sustainable option than some of the larger and more overfished tuna species. However, like all tuna species, they are still vulnerable to overfishing and habitat destruction.
Kawakawa tuna (Euthynnus affinis)
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| source - fishIDER |
Kawakawa tuna, also known as Euthynnus affinis, is a small species of tuna found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They are one of the smallest tuna species, typically growing to around 2 feet in length and weighing up to 10 pounds.
Kawakawa tuna have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly. They have a pointed head and a series of small finlets along their back and sides, similar to other small tuna species.
These fish are highly migratory and are found in a range of habitats, from shallow reefs to deep offshore waters. They feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Kawakawa tuna are primarily used for canning and are also consumed fresh or frozen in some regions. They are not as highly valued as some of the larger tuna species, but are still an important commercial and subsistence fishery in many parts of the world. Due to their smaller size and faster reproductive rate, they are generally considered to be a more sustainable option than some of the larger and more overfished tuna species. However, like all tuna species, they are still vulnerable to overfishing and habitat destruction.
Little tunny (Euthynnus alletteratus)
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| source - wikimediacommons |
Little tunny, also known as Euthynnus alletteratus, is a small species of tuna found in tropical and warm temperate waters around the world. They are one of the smallest species of tuna, typically growing to around 2 feet in length and weighing up to 15 pounds.
Little tunny have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly. They have a pointed head and a series of small finlets along their back and sides, similar to other small tuna species.
These fish are highly migratory and are found in a range of habitats, from shallow reefs to deep offshore waters. They feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Little tunny are primarily used for canning and are also consumed fresh or frozen in some regions. They are not as highly valued as some of the larger tuna species, but are still an important commercial and subsistence fishery in many parts of the world. Due to their smaller size and faster reproductive rate, they are generally considered to be a more sustainable option than some of the larger and more overfished tuna species. However, like all tuna species, they are still vulnerable to overfishing and habitat destruction.
Longtail tuna (Thunnus tonggol)
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| source - fishIDR |
Longtail tuna, also known as Thunnus tonggol, is a species of tuna found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They are a relatively large species of tuna, with adults typically growing to around 4 feet in length and weighing up to 100 pounds.
Longtail tuna have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly. They have a pointed head and a series of small finlets along their back and sides.
These fish are highly migratory and are found in a range of habitats, from shallow reefs to deep offshore waters. They feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Longtail tuna are an important commercial and subsistence fishery in many parts of the world, particularly in Southeast Asia where they are highly valued for their meat. They are also popular with recreational anglers due to their strong fighting ability. However, like all tuna species, they are vulnerable to overfishing and habitat destruction. Some populations of longtail tuna are considered to be overfished, and there are concerns about the sustainability of the fishery in some regions.
Northern bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis)
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| source - fishIDR |
Northern bluefin tuna, also known as Thunnus orientalis, is a species of tuna found in the northern Pacific Ocean. They are a relatively large species of tuna, with adults typically growing to around 6-7 feet in length and weighing up to 450 pounds.
Northern bluefin tuna have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly. They have a pointed head and a series of small finlets along their back and sides, similar to other tuna species.
These fish are highly migratory and can travel long distances in search of food and suitable breeding grounds. They are found in a range of habitats, from shallow coastal waters to deep offshore areas.
Northern bluefin tuna are one of the most valuable fish species in the world, particularly in Japan where they are highly prized for their meat, which is used in sushi and sashimi dishes. However, the species is also heavily overfished, and populations have declined significantly in recent decades. Northern bluefin tuna are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and there are ongoing efforts to manage and conserve the remaining populations.
Skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis)
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| source - wikipedia |
Skipjack tuna, also known as Katsuwonus pelamis, is a species of tuna found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They are a relatively small species of tuna, with adults typically growing to around 2-3 feet in length and weighing up to 20 pounds.
Skipjack tuna have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly. They have a pointed head and a series of small finlets along their back and sides.
These fish are highly migratory and are found in a range of habitats, from shallow reefs to deep offshore waters. They feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Skipjack tuna are an important commercial and subsistence fishery in many parts of the world, particularly in Asia where they are highly valued for their meat. They are also popular with recreational anglers due to their strong fighting ability. Skipjack tuna are generally considered to be more resilient to fishing pressure than other tuna species, and are currently considered to be a sustainable fishery in most regions. However, there are concerns about the impact of fishing on the overall health of the species, and management measures are in place to ensure their sustainability.
Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii)
Southern bluefin tuna, also known as Thunnus maccoyii, is a species of tuna found in the southern hemisphere, particularly in the southern Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They are a relatively large species of tuna, with adults typically growing to around 6-7 feet in length and weighing up to 500 pounds.
Southern bluefin tuna have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-black back and silver sides and belly. They have a pointed head and a series of small finlets along their back and sides, similar to other tuna species.
These fish are highly migratory and can travel long distances in search of food and suitable breeding grounds. They are found in a range of habitats, from shallow coastal waters to deep offshore areas.
Southern bluefin tuna are one of the most valuable fish species in the world, particularly in Japan where they are highly prized for their meat, which is used in sushi and sashimi dishes. However, the species is also heavily overfished, and populations have declined significantly in recent decades. Southern bluefin tuna are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and there are ongoing efforts to manage and conserve the remaining populations.
Yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares)
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| source - fishIDER |
Yellowfin tuna, also known as Thunnus albacares, is a species of tuna found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They are a relatively large species of tuna, with adults typically growing to around 6-7 feet in length and weighing up to 400 pounds.
Yellowfin tuna have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a metallic blue-black back and yellow sides and belly. They have a pointed head and a series of small finlets along their back and sides, similar to other tuna species.
These fish are highly migratory and are found in a range of habitats, from shallow coastal waters to deep offshore areas. They feed on a variety of prey including fish, squid, and crustaceans.
Yellowfin tuna are an important commercial fishery in many parts of the world, particularly in the western and central Pacific Ocean where they are the most commonly caught tuna species. They are highly valued for their meat, which is used in a variety of dishes including sushi, sashimi, and canned tuna. Yellowfin tuna are generally considered to be a sustainable fishery in most regions, although there are concerns about overfishing and the impact of fishing on other marine species such as dolphins and sea turtles that can be caught incidentally. As a result, management measures such as size and bag limits, fishing quotas, and the use of more selective fishing gear are in place to ensure their sustainability.
Sure, here is a more detailed explanation of the threats facing tuna species:
Overfishing:
Tuna are one of the most heavily fished species in the world. Many tuna species are highly prized for their meat, and are caught in large quantities for human consumption. This has led to a significant decline in tuna populations in many parts of the world, particularly in the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions. Overfishing can lead to reduced population sizes, changes in age and size structure, and genetic changes that can affect the ability of a population to recover from overfishing.
Habitat loss:
Tuna rely on a variety of habitats throughout their life cycle, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and open ocean areas. Habitat loss and degradation can have a significant impact on tuna populations by reducing the availability of food, shelter, and breeding sites. Coastal development, pollution, and climate change can all contribute to habitat loss and degradation.
Bycatch:
Many tuna fishing methods, such as longlining and purse seining, can result in the accidental capture of non-target species, known as bycatch. Bycatch can include species such as dolphins, sea turtles, and sharks, many of which are also threatened or endangered. Bycatch can have a significant impact on the overall health of marine ecosystems and can reduce the effectiveness of conservation efforts for these species.
Climate change:
Climate change can have a significant impact on tuna populations by affecting ocean temperatures, currents, and food availability. Changes in ocean temperatures and currents can alter the distribution and migration patterns of tuna, while changes in food availability can affect their growth and reproductive success. Climate change can also affect the availability and distribution of prey species, leading to changes in the composition of marine ecosystems and potentially reducing the overall productivity of these systems.
To address these threats, many countries and international organizations have implemented management and conservation measures for tuna species, including fishing quotas, size and bag limits, and the use of more selective fishing gear. These measures are designed to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect tuna populations and their habitats from further decline.
Conservation efforts for tuna species
Conservation efforts for tuna species aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of tuna populations, while also protecting the ecosystems they inhabit. Here are some key conservation measures:
Fisheries management:
Fisheries management measures such as size and bag limits, fishing quotas, and the use of more selective fishing gear are in place to ensure the sustainable harvest of tuna. These measures are implemented at both the national and international levels.
Monitoring and enforcement:
Monitoring and enforcement of fishing regulations is crucial to ensure that fishing activities remain within sustainable limits. This includes monitoring of catch levels, tracking of fishing vessels, and enforcement of regulations through penalties and fines.
Protection of critical habitats:
The protection of critical habitats such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and spawning areas is important for the long-term survival of tuna populations. Marine protected areas and other conservation measures can help protect these habitats from damage and degradation.
Reduced bycatch:
The reduction of bycatch, or the unintentional capture of non-target species, is important to minimize the impact of fishing on other marine species. This can be achieved through the use of more selective fishing gear and fishing practices that avoid areas with high levels of bycatch.
Research and monitoring:
Ongoing research and monitoring of tuna populations, their habitats, and fishing activities are essential to inform conservation measures and ensure their effectiveness over time. This includes research on the impact of climate change on tuna populations and their habitats, as well as monitoring of fishing activities and compliance with regulations.
Applications of tuna
Sure, here are some applications of tuna in detail:
Culinary uses: Tuna is a popular ingredient in many cuisines around the world. It can be used in a variety of dishes such as sushi, sashimi, salads, sandwiches, pasta, and casseroles. Tuna is also used in canned form, which is a convenient and long-lasting product that can be used in many recipes.
Nutritional supplement: Tuna is a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is particularly high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health. As a result, tuna is often used as a nutritional supplement in the form of capsules or oil.
Pet food: Tuna is also used in the production of pet food. It is a high-protein ingredient that is often used in cat food. Tuna-based pet food is available in canned or dry form.
Cosmetics: Tuna oil is a popular ingredient in cosmetics and skincare products. It is rich in fatty acids and is believed to have moisturizing and anti-aging properties. Tuna oil can be used in products such as moisturizers, lip balms, and shampoos.
Biodiesel: Tuna oil can also be used as a feedstock for the production of biodiesel fuel. The oil is extracted from the fish and converted into a fuel that can be used in diesel engines.
Traditional medicine: Tuna is also used in traditional medicine in some cultures. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties and is used to treat conditions such as arthritis and rheumatism.
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