Mackerel (Spotted)

Characteristics

These fish are distinguished from other mackerel and tuna by having strong teeth in both jaws, two small keels and one median keel on the tail wrist. Spotted Mackerel have a faint band of small round spots along their sides and their dorsal fin is almost uniformly black-blue.

Size

Have been recorded to a maximum size of approximately 100 cm.

Distribution

These fish are endemic to Australasian waters and are found in northern NSW, extending southwards with the warm currents. They are most common in offshore waters away from reefs and shoals.

Confusing species

Other species of Scomberomorus such as the School, Spanish and Scaly Mackerels.