The Declining Population Levels Of Bluefin Tuna

Bluefin tuna have suffered major population declines due to overfishing. Recent scientific research discusses various ways to implement management techniques to target the rapid declining population levels of Bluefin Tuna. However, much of this research demonstrates a substantial level of uncertainty about the basic biology of Bluefin Tuna. In particular, a lack of knowledge about the migratory patterns of Bluefin Tuna hinders the success of many proposed management techniques. Thus, it is evident that the biology of Bluefin Tuna needs to be completely understood in order to implement successful monitoring and management techniques.
Introduction

Bluefin Tuna have been heavily sought after for high quality meat, especially in Japan. Bluefin Tuna are known for their remarkable sizes; they can reach up to 6-10 feet and 1500 pounds. Over the past decade, Bluefin Tuna have become highly profitable due to their demand in the sushi market. This has led to the development of more refined commercial fishing techniques to capture Bluefin Tuna. …show more content…
Atlantic Bluefin Tuna are currently experiencing the highest threat, which is mainly attributed to illegal fishing. Atlantic Bluefin Tuna can be divided into two populations. One population spawns in the Gulf of Mexico, and is located primarily in the Western Atlantic. The second population is distributed in the Eastern Atlantic, and spawns in the Mediterranean Sea. Pacific Bluefin Tuna are generally found in the North Pacific, and exhibit the largest geographic range. Pacific Bluefin Tuna migrate between the Western Pacific (central Japan and northern Philippines) and the Eastern Pacific (Baja California, Mexico). Southern Bluefin Tuna are distributed throughout the Southern Hemisphere, and spawn in the Indian