The Southern Bluefin Tuna, Thunnus thynnus maccoyii (Castelnau), in Australian Waters

Abstract

This paper deals with the results of the investigations of the Division of Fisheries, C.S.I.R.O., into the biology of the southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus maccoyii (Castelnau)), a representative in southern Australia and New Zealand of the tunny of Europe and the bluefin tuna of California. A comparative description of the morphology of the ,Australian form is given with a detailed study of its occurrence in Australia, including a discussion of the possible presence of local breeding stocks. The growth rate is considered from a study of length frequency data.' Considerable variations have been found in the growth rate of the younger age classes, as well as fluctuations in their relative abundance and their migratory movements along the eastern Australian coastline. Reference is made to the feeding habits in various areas.