Depth
Pomatomus · Bony Fish

Bluefish

Pomatomus saltatrix

Variable
Depth Range
Variable
Max Size
Mediterranean
Distribution
Variable
Depth Range
Variable
Max Size
Variable
Habitat
Variable
Diet
Variable
Social
VU
IUCN Status
Moderate
Sighting Likelihood
KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassActinopterygii
GenusPomatomus
Speciessaltatrix

Bony Fish

Identification & Biology

  • IdentificationPowerful, torpedo-shaped body built for speed. Blue-green back fading to silver on the flanks and white below. Strong jaws with a single row of sharp, triangular teeth. Forked tail.
  • SizeUp to 130 cm and 14 kg, though Mediterranean individuals are commonly 40 to 70 cm.
  • Social HabitHighly social and aggressive predator. Hunts in fast-moving schools that chase baitfish to the surface, creating visible feeding frenzies.
  • HabitatCoastal and offshore pelagic waters. Found over sandy bottoms, around reefs, and in harbours during feeding runs.
  • DepthSurface to 200 m, most active in the top 40 m.
  • Feeds OnFish including sardines, anchovies, mullet, and mackerel. Also takes squid. Known for biting through prey rather than swallowing whole.
  • DistributionFound worldwide in temperate and subtropical seas. Common throughout the Mediterranean.
  • DescriptionOne of the most aggressive predators in Mediterranean coastal waters. Bluefish are notorious for their violent feeding frenzies, where a school will drive baitfish to the surface and slash through them with razor-sharp teeth. They are a prized target for sport fishers. Divers occasionally encounter schools while diving near bait aggregations.

Range

Habitat & Distribution

Found across the Mediterranean Sea. Habitat and depth details to be confirmed.

Where Malta divers have spotted this species

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Sightings are logged by divers using our What Did You See? dive-log tool. View the full live sightings map.

Detail

Preferred Environment

Habitat details for Bluefish to be confirmed. Most commonly encountered in Mediterranean waters.

Encounter Tips

Best approached slowly and calmly. Avoid casting shadows directly over the animal. Neutral buoyancy and patience increase encounter success significantly.

Bluefish species card

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Where to Encounter in Malta

Dive sites where Pomatomus saltatrix may be encountered will be added as sighting data is collected.

IUCN Red ListVulnerable

Conservation Status

This species is assessed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Mediterranean populations face ongoing pressure from fishing activity, habitat degradation, and climate-driven changes.

Source: IUCN Red List
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