A fish of remarkable spectacle, the Atlantic bluefin tuna, has been found on an Anglesey beach, marking its unexpected return to Welsh waters after many years. Known for their massive size, weighing double that of a baby elephant, and unparalleled predatory prowess, this species had vanished from the local marine landscape.
But on Thursday, January 2, wildlife enthusiasts stumbled upon a deceased adult tuna on an undisclosed Anglesey shore. The absence of apparent injuries from netting or fishing leaves the cause of its death a mystery. Historically native to British seas, the bluefin tuna saw a rapid population decline driven by a soaring demand for Japanese sashimi in the 1960s, compounded by the depletion of herring and mackerel stocks due to overfishing. For the latest Welsh news delivered to your inbox sign up to our newsletter.
However, following its complete disappearance from UK waters since the late 1960s, sightings re-emerged in 2014, with a notable increase from 2018 off the west coast of Wales. This resurgence is credited to enhanced global management practices and the revival of sardine and herring populations, alongside potentially warmer maritime temperatures, reports North Wales Live
The discovery on Anglesey has been logged with the authorities by volunteers from British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR). BDMLR’s North Wales rescue coordinator, Gem Simmons, commented: “The deceased bluefin tuna was brought in on the morning tide. It appeared to be a relatively healthy specimen and, hopefully, it’s a sign of a conservation success story. It’s nice to see them returning to the UK after a long absence. For around 60 years we’d not had any sightings but in the past few years, UK numbers have been growing slowly, reflecting improved management. The poleward shift of marine species may be another factor as changing ocean temperatures expand their range further north.”
In addition to their culinary value, the size, speed and strength of bluefin tuna has always presented an alluring challenge for anglers. These robust, torpedo-shaped fish possess retractable fins and eyes that are flush with their bodies, enabling them to reach speeds of up to 28mph. They can accelerate faster than a Porsche.
Fully grown adults typically measure between 6.6ft – 8.2ft in length and weigh approximately 500lb, although the largest recorded specimen was nearly double this size. The Anglesey tuna was smaller than average but will still provide a beach banquet for local wildlife. Gem stated: “People are not always keen to see dead animals left on beaches. But this is in a relatively remote location and will provide a food source that will benefit the wider marine ecosystem. I’m hoping the seals find it and enjoy this gourmet meal.”
In 2021, the UK government eased restrictions prohibiting the capture of this protected big game fish by approving a catch-and-release tagging programme. Last year, the Welsh Government issued 15 permits to recreational boats for bluefin tuna catch-and-release in Welsh waters. Meanwhile, the UK’s rural ministry, Defra, has taken a bold step by permitting a limited catch of bluefin tuna for consumption. Within the UK’s allocated quota, 65 tonnes of bluefin tuna may be caught, with 39 tonnes earmarked for a pilot commercial fishery in the country.
The objective is to establish a sustainable fishery that promotes long-term conservation, with proponents looking to develop a “world-class bluefin tuna fishery”. There could be environmental advantages as well, as the UK could reduce its reliance on imported tuna from aquaculture operations in Spain and Canada. However, marine conservationists have been left shocked by the move. Critics argue that the majestic bluefin tuna ought to be valued and conserved not targeted by commercial fisheries to provide luxury fare for upscale eateries.