Yellowfin tuna are sleek, fast-moving predators that grow to around 2.4 metres and are built for open water. Recognise them by their bright yellow finlets and dorsal fin, contrasting with a dark blue back and silver belly. They hunt in small groups in offshore waters, often at 50–250 metres depth, pursuing schooling fish and squid with explosive bursts of speed. Divers encounter them most often while drifting on deeper reefs or in blue water where thermoclines concentrate prey.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Teleostei
- Order
- Scombriformes
- Family
- Scombridae
- Genus
- Thunnus
Most likely to be seen at
Sites where its range and habitat make it likely — not yet confirmed by a logged sighting.