Mackerel is a common name that encompasses several different species within the family Scombridae. These streamlined, silvery fish are renowned for their schooling behavior, forming vast aggregations in the open ocean. They are widely distributed throughout temperate and tropical waters globally, inhabiting various depths depending on the species and season.
Mackerel play a significant ecological role as both predator and prey. They feed on a variety of zooplankton, small fish, and squid, while themselves being a vital food source for larger fish, marine mammals, and seabirds. Their high nutritional value, containing omega-3 fatty acids and protein, has also made it a commercially important fish species, supporting fisheries worldwide.
Appearance
The scientific name of the species caught in the North Atlantic is Scomber scombrus. Other species of Scomber, and species of Scomberomours, Auxis, and Restrelliger, are also described as mackerel in many parts of the world.
They are a fast-swimming fish with a streamlined and torpedo-shaped body. It also has a bluish-green back, silver sides, and a row of black spots down the center of its body. Moreover, it has a silvery-white lower body, a small head with large eyes, and a deeply forked tail fin.
With their streamlined bodies and finlets, they are highly mobile fish found in various marine environments. In most cases, they are found in schools. So, they are social beings.
The size mainly varies according to species, determined by the location and fishing methods. Some populations may be smaller or larger than the typical ranges. Atlantic, for example, can grow to be 17-18 inches (43-46 cm) long and weigh up to 2 pounds (1 kg). On the other hand, the Pacific can grow to be 12-14 inches (30-36 cm) long and weigh up to 1.5 pounds (0.7 kg).
Mackerel Species
Some of the more famous species of mackerel include:
- Chub Mackerel (Scomber japonicus): Similar to Atlantic mackerel, this species is found widely in the Pacific Ocean. It’s smaller than the king mackerel and valued for its meat, which is consumed worldwide.
- King Mackerel (Scomberomorus cavalla): A large species that can grow up to 66 inches and weigh as much as 100 pounds, king mackerel are known for their speed and agility in the water, making them popular among sport fishers.
- Cero Mackerel (Scomberomorus regalis): Also known as the pintado or kingfish, the cero mackerel sports a streamlined body with a series of yellowish dots and dashes running along its sides, distinguishing it from other mackerels.
- Atlantic Mackerel (Scomber scombrus): This species is common in both North Atlantic waters and Mediterranean Sea. It’s small but important commercially and is prized for its rich, oily meat which is packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
- Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus maculatus): Primarily found in the western Atlantic Ocean, from New York to the Gulf of Mexico and into the Caribbean, this species is particularly admired for its beautifully marked skin, which features bright, iridescent blue and silver scales with distinctive golden spots and streaks running from the dorsal fin down the body.
Habitat
From the warm waters of the Caribbean to the cooler Pacific coast of California, different mackerel species inhabit diverse habitats. During October, large schools migrate through the coastal bays of Florida, attracting recreational anglers and commercial fisheries.
They can be found worldwide in temperate and tropical waters, they travel great distances in search of food and suitable spawning grounds.
According to research, they can be found in the Atlantic Ocean from Norway to South Africa. They are also seen migrating from Japan to Australia in the Pacific Ocean.
Diet
Mackerel is a predatory fish that feeds on small marine animals such as crustaceans, squid, and small fish like herring and anchovy.
Mackerel is a fast-swimming fish that hunts near the ocean’s surface and deeper waters. As a result, it can rely on speed and agility, sharp teeth, and a streamlined body to catch its prey fast.
It provides food for larger predatory fish, marine mammals, and seabirds. As part of the marine food chain, it plays an essential role in maintaining the balance of ocean ecosystems.
Reproduction
Mackerel live for about 10-20 years and reach sexual maturity between the ages of 2 and 5 years old, depending on the species. They produce millions of offspring. However, many do not survive to adulthood due to predation, disease, and other factors.
Adults congregate in large schools in shallow coastal waters during the spawning season.
It spawns in open water rather than near shore or sea floor. Spawning occurs during the spring and summer, and females can lay up to 500,000 eggs per season.
The sperm from the male mackerel fertilizes the eggs, and the fertilized eggs develop into larvae that hatch after a few days. The larvae are then carried along by ocean currents, feeding on plankton until maturity.
Threats
Mackerel is a popular commercial and recreational fish, meaning it is overfished in some areas but preserved in others. Some are covered with ice and used at the appropriate time. So, the high demand for mackerel has resulted in a population decline.
Unsustainable fishing practices like using large fishing nets during the spawning season have played a significant role in the decrease. Using it as fishing bait or lures might also cause severe problems in the ocean due to an imbalance in the food chain. So, it is necessary to create artificial fish baits that are not preserved with ice.
Changes in ocean currents and temperatures also affect their distribution and abundance, making climate change a threat to the mackerel population.
4 Amazing Facts About Mackerel
- Mackerel plays a crucial role in the marine food web, feeding on smaller fish and shellfish while also being preyed upon by sharks and dolphins.
- The schooling behavior of mackerel can sometimes lead to bycatch issues, where non-target species are unintentionally caught in fishing gear.
- They are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are critical for heart health and lowering the risk of certain diseases.
- Frequently canned or smoked and used in various dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and sushi.
FAQs
What kind of fish is mackerel?
Mackerel is a generic term for several species of fish in the Scombridae family, including tuna, bonito, and Spanish. Atlantic (Scombrus scombrus), Pacific (Scomber japonicus), Spanish (Scomberomorus commerson), King (Scomberomorus cavalla), and Cero (Scomberomorus regalis) are the most common species consumed as food.
What are the potential health benefits of eating mackerel?
It is high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B12 and D, selenium, and other nutrients. Some people eat for its potential health benefits, such as improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and improved brain function. It is important to remember, however, that a healthy and balanced diet includes a variety of foods from various food groups.
Why do mackerel swim in schools?
Schooling behavior is a fascinating adaptation that provides multiple benefits. Firstly, it’s a safety strategy. By swimming in large groups, mackerel create a confusing visual spectacle for predators, making it harder for them to target and capture individual fish. Secondly, schooling enhances feeding efficiency. During breeding seasons, schools provide a higher probability of encountering potential mates, ensuring the continuation of the species.
Do mackerel have a secret language?
Mackerel communicate in a variety of ways that may seem like a secret language to us. They utilize visual cues, such as color changes, body postures, and intricate schooling patterns, to convey messages and coordinate movements within the group. Additionally, they possess an incredible ability to sense water pressure changes created by their neighbors, allowing them to react and adjust their swimming patterns in unison. Some research even suggests that mackerel may employ chemical signals, similar to scents, to communicate specific information or trigger certain behaviors.
