The Atlantic Bonito (Sarda sarda) is a brackish-water fish of the family Scombridae that grows up to 91 cm.
Description
The Atlantic bonito is a streamlined, fast schooling fish of the family Scombridae reaching over 90 cm. The torpedo-shaped body is steel-blue on the back with oblique dark stripes and silvery-white on the flanks, with a row of small finlets before the forked tail. The species lives pelagically across the eastern and western Atlantic, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, tolerating wide ranges of temperature and salinity. As a fast predator the bonito hunts small fish, squid and shrimp in schools and is even cannibalistic. The Atlantic bonito is a highly prized sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic Bonito?
The Atlantic Bonito has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Atlantic Bonito live?
The Atlantic Bonito lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Atlantic Bonito get?
The Atlantic Bonito grows to a maximum of about 91 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Atlantic Bonito dangerous to humans?
The Atlantic Bonito is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed.
Is the Atlantic Bonito edible?
Yes, the Atlantic Bonito is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sarda
More from the family Scombridae
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