Bigeye Tuna Facts

All About Bigeye Tuna


The Bigeye tuna is often referred to by the scientific name Thunnus obesus. Although these fish can generally be found in just about any area, there are some endangerment issues that have recently developed in regards to younger fish in the species. Furthermore, the Bigeye is commonly confused with the Yellowfin and this article will clear up any confusion in that department. Finally, we will briefly discuss fishing and consuming this type of tuna. Throughout this article we will highlight a few key facts about the Bigeye tuna to increase your knowledge of this species.

Bigeye Tuna Facts #1: Difference from Yellowfin

Many people undergo the common error of mistaking a Bigeye tuna fish as a Yellowfin. These two are quite similar; however, there are some distinct characteristics that can assist in distinguishing between these two fish. The biggest physical difference between these two species is the longer pectoral fins of the Bigeye tuna in comparison to the Yellowfin. This is the key way to make the distinction between these two similar species. Both tend to be metallic blue and “tuna-shaped” (or cigar shaped). There is also a somewhat visible blue stripe along the side of the body as well. The Bigeye has white on its belly and yellow dorsal fins that vary in shades. Along with physical characteristics, this specific tuna fish tends to inhabit deeper waters than its counterpart.

Bigeye Tuna Facts #2: Endangerment

Believe it or not, this tuna tends to be one of the species that are becoming threatened by fishing. The biggest concern is with the younger fish of this species. Typically they are increasingly susceptible to being removed from the water since they can be mistaken for other floating objects, such as logs, debris, etc. This common mistake results in the removal of many of these younger species before they are mature enough to breed, which drastically decreases the overall population of the species. Many scientists and fishermen have recently become concerned about this endangerment.

Bigeye Tuna Facts #3: Fishing and Eating

The Bigeye tuna can pretty much is found in any area with open waters, regardless of temperatures or tropical area. However, there is one expectation—you will not find this species in the Mediterranean Sea. Furthermore, these fish tend to reside in deeper waters than your other common fish (Yellowfin), which is essential to understand when planning a fishing trip with the Bigeye tuna in mind.

In regards to consumption, the Bigeye tuna is available year around—it is not a seasonal fish. Therefore, it should not be too hard to find on the menu unless the previously mentioned endangerment gets out of hand. In regards to taste, people describe the tuna as medium in flavor and a bit firm in texture.

Overall, the Bigeye tuna should be relatively easy to find if you are planning a fishing trip in open waters outside of the Mediterranean Sea. Be sure to compare the physical characteristics of the fish to ensure that you truly have caught a Bigeye and are not mistaken it for the similar Yellowfin.