EXPLORE > ANIMALS > FISH
Seriola lalandei
The common name of this fish can be confusing as a variety of species, including tuna, flounder, sole and amberjacks, are often referred to as "yellowtails." This particular species is sometimes called a yellowtail amberjack.
These fish are found in numerous regions of the Pacific Ocean, but along the California and Oregon coasts, they are most likely lurking in the kelp forests hunting for food. As they migrate north, fishermen are often waiting for them and an annual haul can include as many as 400,000 fishes.
As their name implies, yellowtails usually have brown or olive-brown bodies with yellowish fins. They are voracious carnivores and will feed upon anchovies, sardines, squid and crab.
This is a popular fish used in sushi cuisine on both sides of the Pacific Ocean. It is often sold under the name "hamachi." This species is widely farmed in both Japan and South America for the sushi trade.
Range and Habitat
The yellowtail jack is a common species found along the Pacific Coast of North America as far south at the Gulf of California. They reside largely in kelp forests or may school in large numbers below floating kelp mats.
Conservation Status
Common.
Photo credit: Brian Gratwicke.
Seriola lalandei
The common name of this fish can be confusing as a variety of species, including tuna, flounder, sole and amberjacks, are often referred to as "yellowtails." This particular species is sometimes called a yellowtail amberjack.
These fish are found in numerous regions of the Pacific Ocean, but along the California and Oregon coasts, they are most likely lurking in the kelp forests hunting for food. As they migrate north, fishermen are often waiting for them and an annual haul can include as many as 400,000 fishes.
As their name implies, yellowtails usually have brown or olive-brown bodies with yellowish fins. They are voracious carnivores and will feed upon anchovies, sardines, squid and crab.
This is a popular fish used in sushi cuisine on both sides of the Pacific Ocean. It is often sold under the name "hamachi." This species is widely farmed in both Japan and South America for the sushi trade.
Range and Habitat
The yellowtail jack is a common species found along the Pacific Coast of North America as far south at the Gulf of California. They reside largely in kelp forests or may school in large numbers below floating kelp mats.
Conservation Status
Common.
Photo credit: Brian Gratwicke.