Bluefin Tuna Make a Comeback in the Sound
Öresund, the strait between Denmark and Sweden, has become a surprising haven for Atlantic bluefin tuna. The once rare and overfished species is now thriving in the Sound, as locals and marine biologists have noticed an increase in sightings of these magnificent creatures.
Jens Peder Jeppesen, a marine biologist at the Öresund aquarium in Helsingör, expressed his excitement about the phenomenon. “I have never experienced so much tuna before,” he said. The large, silver-colored tuna can be seen jumping over the surface of the water, creating a spectacular sight for onlookers.
August and September, in particular, are high seasons for these tuna sightings, and this year has seen more of them than ever before. According to Jeppesen, it is awe-inspiring to witness such an abundance of these big fish in Öresund, some weighing over 200 to 500 kilograms.
The return of the bluefin tuna to the Sound after an absence of about 55 years is a result of several factors. Large-scale fishing depleted their population, leading to their rarity. Today, the species is protected in Swedish and Danish waters, and fishing for them is strictly prohibited. This protection, coupled with reduced fishing pressure in the Mediterranean and the migration of their prey fish, such as herring and mackerel, has contributed to their resurgence.
In recent years, the late summer months have become a tradition for residents of Helsingborg and Helsingør to observe the tuna dancing above the waters. Visitors who wish to witness this mesmerizing sight have good chances of doing so during August, September, and October.
The bluefin tuna is a migratory species found in the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans. These fish can reach impressive sizes, measuring one to three meters in length and weighing several hundred kilograms. The largest recorded specimens weighed over 900 kilograms and were approximately five meters long.
Recreational fishing for bluefin tuna is strictly prohibited, not only in the waters of Denmark and Sweden but also in other countries’ waters in the Skagerrak, Kattegat, and the Baltic Sea.
The return of the bluefin tuna to Öresund is not only a testament to the resilience of nature but also a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered species. With continued preservation and responsible fishing practices, these magnificent creatures can continue to thrive and captivate those fortunate enough to witness them.
Source: The Norwegian Sea and Water Authority