At Last: The Atlantic Mackerel

The Atlantic mackerel, also known as the Boston mackerel, Norwegian mackerel, Scottish mackerel or common mackerel (Scomber scombrus) is a the type species of the mackerels. It resides throughout the Atlantic Ocean, particularly along the coasts of northern North America, northern Europe, and the Mediterranean, Black, and Baltic Seas. They generally prefer colder waters, and can be found between depths of 200 m (660 ft) and 1,000 m (3,300 ft).

Common mackerel are a migratory species; between April and July they are rarely farther than 48 km (30 mi) from the shoreline, when they spawn; the rest of the year father north and in deeper waters. Both males and females release their gametes into the water; females may release up to 450,000 eggs in a single spawning season. The eggs hatch within 4-7 days, depending on the water temperature-- warmer waters hatch eggs faster. Juveniles grow rapidly, and reach full maturity in 2 years. Adults may live up to 20 years in the wild.

Juveniles spend the day at greater depths, and swim up to the surface at night to feed, while adults are active throughout the day. S. scombrus typically travels in large schools-- up to several thousand individuals. They feed primarily on crustaceans such as copepods, krill, and shrimp. In turn, they are prey for a variety of animals including seabirds such as gannets, grey seals, dogfish, bluefin tuna, and sharks.

Conservation status: Atlantic mackerel are classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. The population is currently considered widespread and stable. However, the IUCN and many oceanic institutes counsel close monitoring, due to the species' widespread popularity for commercial fishing and the warming of its waters as part of climate change.

Photos

Oceana Canada

JC Shou

Where towering cliffs meet the endless crush of the tides. 🏝️✨ Watching the turquoise waves break softly against hidden shores, feeling completely humbled by the vastness of the ocean. Pure, unmapped serenity. 🐋💨

where the coastline drops from view and the sea floor is closer than dry land. name ideas for characters, creatures, and creators alike 💙

Atlanta, Abyss, Corentin, Dylan

Gale, Hadal, Haline, Kai

Kailani, Mar, Marin, Marina

Maris, Maryn, Moana, Nereida

Nereo, Nereus, Netuno, Oceana

Oceanus, Ondina, Pacifica, Pelagia

Pelagius, Polynya, Ridge, Salacia

Seaborn, Sehild, Serich, Stellamaris

Storm, Tempest, Thalassa, Undine

enjoy!

Absolutely! I'm surprised we haven't done this one yet!