Every year, about six million tuna are caught from the oceans. Among them, skipjack holds a special place, as this species makes up a large share of the world’s tuna catch and is most commonly used in the canned tuna industry. After skipjack, the yellowfin tuna ranks second, accounting for less than a quarter of the global tuna catch.
Farming tuna in closed environments is almost impossible, unlike species such as trout that can be raised in aquaculture farms. For this reason, tuna are typically caught in open waters and oceans using bait. Interestingly, in many parts of the world, competitions are held to catch the largest tuna of the year, as this fish is famous for its large size and high nutritional value. Tuna is one of the most popular seafoods worldwide, but due to heavy and sometimes unregulated fishing, its natural stocks are constantly under pressure.
Skipjack tuna (Hoover) is one of the most valuable tuna species, containing 28 times more omega-3 than many other fish. It is rich in protein and iodine, supplies the body’s need for selenium, and contains important compounds such as vitamin A, vitamin B6, and folic acid.
The main health benefits of consuming tuna include promoting heart health, providing B vitamins, strengthening the immune system, and helping regulate blood pressure. These benefits are not limited to adults; skipjack tuna is also highly beneficial for children’s growth and overall health.
Biological Features and Distribution
Skipjack is a key commercial species found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, with its presence reported in about 170 countries. It is also native to the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman.
This fish can grow up to 110 cm in length and swim at speeds of up to 40 km/h. Its body is fusiform, with small conical teeth and numerous dorsal spines. The belly is silver, the back ranges from dark gray to purplish-blue, and the sides are marked with four to six distinct longitudinal dark stripes.
Behavior and Habitat
During spawning season, a single skipjack may release between 80,000 and 2 million eggs. While it prefers surface waters, it often dives to depths of 270 meters during the day in search of prey. Skipjack usually lives in large schools of up to 50,000 individuals, feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. At the same time, it serves as an important prey species for sharks and large pelagic fish, and is frequently used as live bait in marlin fishing.
Other Characteristics
Skipjack tuna lacks scales except on the corselet (a band of large, thick scales behind the head), and has a weak lateral line. Its average lifespan is around 12 years.
Nutritional and Industrial Value
Skipjack is one of the most important species in the canned tuna industry, often mistakenly referred to simply as “tuna.” Unlike many other fish with white flesh, skipjack has light pink meat due to its more active blood circulation and higher oxygen transport. This species is also very sensitive to environmental changes, and the impacts of climate change on its life cycle are significant.
As a fatty saltwater fish, skipjack is an excellent source of essential fatty acids, protein, minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, and E. Every 100 grams of its meat provides about 103 calories and 22 grams of protein.
In Iran, skipjack tuna (Hoover) is widely used in the Shilton canned tuna brand, produced in 120 g, 150 g, and 180 g sizes, with a variety of flavors available on the market.
Conclusion
Skipjack tuna (Hoover), rich in omega-3 and protein, is one of the most important tuna species worldwide. Beyond its many health benefits, it also plays a major role in the canned fish industry. Given the intense fishing pressure and the species’ sensitivity to environmental changes, sustainable and responsible use of this valuable marine resource is essential.
