Fin's Fish Guide
The Little tunny (Euthynnus alletteratus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Scombridae that grows up to 122 cm.
Warm and temperate parts of the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea.
Description
The little tunny is a fast-swimming mackerel relative of warm and temperate parts of the Atlantic and adjacent seas, including the Mediterranean. It has a torpedo-shaped, muscular body, can grow to over a metre and hunts in schools close inshore. As an opportunistic predator it eats almost anything: crustaceans, fishes (especially herring-like species), squids and tunicates. Its back bears a pattern of dark, wavy stripes and the flank a few dark spots. The species is fished commercially, although there are reports of ciguatera poisoning. It is generally harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Little tunny?
The Little tunny has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a flame-patterned pattern. Winding dark stripes on the back and a few dark blotches below the pectoral fin. Note: in tropical regions this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large individuals of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Little tunny live?
The Little tunny lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Warm and temperate parts of the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea.
How big does the Little tunny get?
The Little tunny grows to a maximum of about 122 cm. On average the species is around 80 cm.
Is the Little tunny dangerous to humans?
The Little tunny is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If symptoms of ciguatera poisoning appear after eating (tingling, gastrointestinal upset), seek medical help. There is no specific antidote; treatment is supportive.
Is the Little tunny edible?
Yes, the Little tunny is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Little tunny and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Euthynnus
More from the family Scombridae
Want the complete picture on the Little tunny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Little tunny is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone