Why in the News?

The Department of Fisheries has notified the creation of a Tuna Cluster in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

The A&N Islands offer significant opportunities for fisheries development with approximately 6.0 lakh square km of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
This region has rich sea resources, particularly Tuna and Tuna-like species, with an estimated potential of 60,000 metric tons.
The islands’ location near Southeast Asia enables efficient sea and air trade, and the pristine waters support sustainable fishing.

About Tuna Species and its Significance

Tuna are large, fast-swimming fish belonging to the Thunnini tribe within the Scombridae family.
Known for their streamlined bodies and remarkable agility, tuna are found in tropical and temperate oceans worldwide.
There are over 15 species of tuna, with some of the most well-known being Bluefin, Yellowfin, Albacore, Bigeye, and Skipjack.
Tuna can grow quickly and live for several decades, with species like Bluefin reaching over 450 kg in weight.
It is one of the most popular and valuable fish in the global seafood market, highly sought after for its flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
Species like Bluefin tuna are particularly valuable, often fetching high prices in markets, especially in Japan for dishes like sushi and sashimi.
It is rich in protein, low in saturated fat, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, brain function, and inflammation reduction.
It also provides essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D, B12, iron, and selenium.

[2013] The most important fishing grounds of the world are found in the regions where

(a) Warm and cold atmospheric currents meet

(b) Rivers drain out large amounts of freshwater into the sea

(d) Continental shelf is undulating