Atlantic Horse Mackerel

Overview

The Atlantic Horse Mackerel is a semi-pelagic, social fish species widely distributed across the temperate and subtropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea. Often found in large, active schools, this species plays a significant role in marine food webs and is a target of commercial fisheries.

Distribution & habitat

This species inhabits coastal areas and continental shelves, typically over sandy substrates. While they are often found at depths between 100 and 200 meters, they may move into shallower surface waters during the summer or descend to greater depths in colder conditions. Their range extends from Iceland and the Norwegian Sea in the north down to Senegal, including the waters surrounding the Azores, Canary Islands, and Cape Verde.

Appearance

The Atlantic Horse Mackerel has a slender, fusiform, and slightly compressed body with a large head. A key identifying feature is the presence of two lateral lines, with the main line armored by a series of spiny, defensive scutes that become more pronounced toward the tail. The species also possesses a well-developed adipose eyelid and two dorsal fins, with the first containing thin spines.

Biology & behavior

These fish are highly migratory and never remain motionless, constantly moving in large, crowded schools. Their movement patterns are often dictated by seasonal changes and the availability of food. They are batch spawners, releasing pelagic eggs that hatch into small larvae.

Feeding

As active predators, they feed on a variety of prey, including small crustaceans, cephalopods, and other fish such as sardines and anchovies. They are known to rise to surface waters at night to feed, while remaining closer to the bottom during the day.