One of the worlds most magnificent fish continues to be fished whilst listed as endangered

The plight of the bluefin tuna continues as populations are put under pressure due to continued demand for this prized meat. The bluefin tuna can grow to 2 metres and weigh up to 250kg, fetching high prices in Japanese markets, the record being $173,600 paid for a 201kg tuna in 2001.

Since the 1970′s demand and prices paid for bluefin tuna has soared worldwide as the meat is considered delicious among sashimi eaters. With increased market demand, and refined fishing techniques, stocks of bluefin tuna have been depleted with the Southern bluefin tuna being listed by the IUCN as Critically Endangered.

There are a number of tuna species worldwide, the bluefin is one of the largest and most commercially important. Find out more about tuna here.