English name: Albacore (Longfin Tuna)

Scientific name: Thunnus alalunga

Origin: Pacific Ocean

Overview

Albacore — also called longfin tuna — is a species of tuna in the family Scombridae, known for its exceptionally long pectoral fins and pale flesh.

 It is one of the smaller tuna species and is the only tuna with white-colored meat, which makes it highly sought after for the canned "white meat tuna" market.

Distribution & Habitat

Albacore has a cosmopolitan distribution, occurring in tropical and temperate waters across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, as well as the Mediterranean Sea. 

It is a highly migratory, pelagic species, forming schools in open ocean waters.

Physical Description

Albacore has a streamlined, fusiform body with a conical snout and relatively large eyes. Adults typically reach 80–120 cm (31–47 in) in length, 

with a maximum recorded length of about 140 cm (4.6 ft) and weight of 60 kg (132 lb).

Key identifying features include:

- Exceptionally long pectoral fins — the longest among all tuna species, extending well past the origin of the second dorsal fin

- Dark blue to blackish coloration dorsally, silvery white ventrally

- Body covered in small scales

- Two dorsal fins, with the second being notably taller than the first

- White or pale flesh — the only tuna species with this characteristic

Diet

Albacore feeds primarily on small fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods (squid). It is a fast-swimming predator that forages in the upper layers of the open ocean.

Commercial Importance

Albacore is one of the most commercially important tuna species globally. Its firm, mild-flavored white flesh makes it the preferred species for canned "white meat tuna" in many markets. 

Major fisheries operate in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, with the Pacific albacore fishery being among the largest.