How to Identify Albacore Tuna

To identify Albacore Tuna (Thunnus alalunga), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal side is dark metallic blue, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. The first dorsal fin is deep yellow, the second dorsal and anal fins are light yellow, and the finlets are dark. The caudal fin is dark.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Extremely long pectoral fins, typically extending beyond the origin of the anal fin in adults., Small, conical teeth., Seven to nine dorsal finlets and seven to eight anal finlets., A prominent lateral keel on the caudal peduncle, flanked by two smaller keels.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is spiny and much lower than the second, which is soft-rayed. Followed by 7-9 finlets.

Tail fin

Deeply forked (lunate) caudal fin, characteristic of fast-swimming pelagic fish.

Pectoral fin

Unusually long, extending well past the origin of the anal fin in adults, a key identifying feature.

Distinctive fins

The exceptionally long pectoral fins are the most distinctive feature, setting it apart from other tuna species.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Pectoral Fin Length

   The most reliable identifier: adult Albacore have pectoral fins that are remarkably long, extending past the origin of the anal fin. In juveniles, these fins are proportionally shorter but still longer than most other tuna species.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Dark metallic blue dorsal side and silvery-white belly. The finlets are typically dark, and the first dorsal fin is yellowish.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Robust, fusiform (torpedo-shaped) body, typical of fast-swimming scombrids.

4. 4

   Size

   Can reach up to 140 cm (55 inches) in length and over 60 kg (132 lbs) in weight, though commercially caught individuals are often smaller.

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