Scientific Name
Auxis thazard thazard
Common Name
Frigate tuna
Biology
Epipelagic in neritic and oceanic waters (Ref. 9340). Feeds on small fish, squids, planktonic crustaceans (megalops), and stomatopod larvae (Ref. 5213). Because of their abundance, they are considered an important element of the food web, particularly as forage for other species of commercial interest. Preyed upon by larger fishes, including other tunas (Ref. 9987). Marketed fresh and frozen (Ref. 9340); also utilized dried or salted, smoked and canned (Ref. 9987).