What is tuna?

May 10, 2022

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What is tuna?

Tuna is and one of the most eaten fish in the world. It belongs to a subgroup of the mackerel family and consists of 8 species that vary in colour and size. Tuna is a nomadic species and is found throughout the world's oceans. It can be eaten fresh or canned. Tuna loin is commonly eaten raw or seared and lightly seasoned, while canned tuna is precooked for a long time and often served heavily dressed.

The five main species of tuna

Skipjack

Skipjana tuna illustration

Latin name: Katsuwonus pelamis

Maximum weight: 35 kg

Distinguishing features: Not actually part of the Thunnus genus but is a related species.

Superpower: It has the fastest reproduction rate and the largest stocks of all tuna.

Use: Canned/tinned

Albacore

Albacore tuna illustration

Latin name: Thunnus alalonga

Maximum weight: 60 kg

Distinguishing features: Long pectoral fins.

Superpower: Has a high protein diet: eats only octopus and squid.

Use: Fresh and in cans. Albacore preserved in olive oil is delicious in salads.

Yellowfin

Yellowfin tuna fish illustration

Latin name: Thunnus albacares

Maximum weight: 175 kg

Distinguishing features: Bright yellow fins and finlets.

Superpower: In the East Pacific, near the west coast of Central America, yellowfin tuna and dolphins hang out together. Schools of tuna swim around 100 to 150 metres beneath schools of dolphins. The reasons for this are not entirely understood.

Use: Fresh, canned/tinned. Yellowfin’s mild flavour makes it great in steak form.

Bluefin

Atlantic Bluefin tuna illustration

Latin names: Atlantic Bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus; Pacific bluefin tuna, Thunnus orientalis; Southern bluefin tuna, Thunnus maccoyii

Maximum weight: 700 kg

Distinguishing features: The giant among tuna. However, it grows very slowly and doesn’t reproduce until it has reached an advanced age.

Superpower: It’s as large and fast as a small car.

Use: Sashimi/sushi

As of 2021, there are only two bluefin tuna fisheries to have met the rigorous sustainable fishing standard set by the MSC, and their catch is only available in Japan and France.

Bigeye

Bigeye tuna illustration

Latin name: Thunnus obesus

Maximum weight: 210 kg

Distinguishing features: Big eyes.

Superpower: Diurnal vertical migrant: over the course of a day, it can traverse depths ranging by up to 500 metres. The fat layer formed to protect it from cold keeps its flesh juicy.

Use: Sashimi, "white beef"