Little Tunny (Euthynnus Alletteratus)

Latin name: Euthynnus alletteratus
Common name: Little tunny
In other languages: E: Bacoreta, F: Thonine Commun, D: Kleiner Thun
Family: Scombridae
Genus: Euthynnus

Distribution: Within the Mediterranean they are ever present, though not close to the shoreline, throughout the year.

Behaviour: Shoals of these epipelagic fish can be seen in the clear deep waters off the Moroccan coastline just opposite Gibraltar. They are impressive when seen and appear to be as one large body on the move. When viewed at close quarters they seem powered by some hidden force as their tail fins appear unmoving to the naked eye.

Diet: Pelagic fish.

Size: Common: 30 - 80cm, maximum: 100cm.

Colour: Its name alletteratus refers to the marking found on the back of this fish. A loose translation would be 'letters upon' or 'written upon'. The markings themselves are very similar to those found on the mackerel (scomber scombrus).

Enemies: Taken in some numbers off the West African coastline.