Tuna, Bigeye – U.S. Atlantic, Longline (Maguro)
Bigeye Tuna grow reasonably fast and can live for 10 years, reaching a weight exceeding 200 kg (440 lbs). Female Bigeye Tuna are very fecund (fertile), and can release millions of eggs each year.
Bigeye Tuna are found throughout the world’s tropical and sub-tropical oceans, with populations in the Indian, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Bigeye Tuna have a medium abundance overall; however, some populations are healthier than others.
Globally longline vessels catch 15% of all tuna species including Bigeye Tuna. Longlines catch large numbers of unwanted species (bycatch), including billfish, sharks, seabirds, and sea turtles. In the U.S. Atlantic fishery, however, management regulations are in place to reduce affects on these non-target species.