How big is the Atlantic mackerel?

Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) reaches 30–60 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Atlantic mackerel?

Atlantic mackerel is found between 0–250 m deep.

What is the conservation status of the Atlantic mackerel?

IUCN status: Least concern (LC).

Where can you find the Atlantic mackerel?

Found in: East Atlantic, Mediterranean.

Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus)

Key facts

Scientific name: Scomber scombrus
Common name: Atlantic mackerel
Category: Fish
Family: Scombridae
Genus: Scomber
Size: 30–60 cm
Depth: 0–250 m
IUCN status: Least concern (LC)
Danger level: Harmless
Habitats: open-water
Behaviours: schooling, migratory, fast-moving
Ocean zones: East Atlantic, Mediterranean

Description

Scomber scombrus reaches 60 cm. Extremely hydrodynamic fusiform body, metallic blue-green back adorned with fine sinuous black zigzag stripes, silver flanks. Forms massive schools that seasonally migrate in the North Atlantic between spawning and feeding grounds. Very fast (40 km/h pursuits). Feeds on small fish and zooplankton. Major commercial fishery in Europe and North America.

Photo of Atlantic mackerel

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Atlantic mackerel?: Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) reaches 30–60 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Atlantic mackerel?: Atlantic mackerel is found between 0–250 m deep.
Is the Atlantic mackerel dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Atlantic mackerel?: IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Atlantic mackerel?: Found in: East Atlantic, Mediterranean.

Other species in the family Scombridae

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 127023)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2374149)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia