Greater amberjack

The greater amberjack is a large fish found abundant in our waters. Its spawning period is from May to July. Although abundant the greater amberjack reaches maturity late, at 4-5 y.o. It is one of the largest species in its family, reaching 190 centimeters in length and 80 kilograms in weight. However, the individuals of this species found in our waters usually do not exceed 40 kilograms in weight.

Small individuals of the species are caught with static nets, gillnets and light trolling, while large individuals are caught with thick longlines, bottom trawls and spearfishing. The greater amberjack is also subject to the illegal use of dynamite because of its characteristic to form groups. It is a highly skilled hunter that feeds mainly on fish and cephalopods, mostly cuttlefish and squid. Due to its size and longevity, this species may bioaccumulate toxic substances in unhealthy levels for humans. Thus we recommend consuming with caution, preferably avoiding weekly consumption.

Bottom trawling is one of the most harmful ways to fish in our seas, as it drags heavy gear across the seabed, damaging all kinds of habitats, killing benthic life and leading to high catches of non-targeted species. In the southern part of Cyprus there is a restriction for trawling during the 16th of February and the 31st of May, and in the northern part bottom trawling is altogether banned.

It is recommended to ask your fisher or fishmonger where the fish was caught and with which fishing method, as well as buying this species outside of its spawning period. Prefer locally harvested seafood products by coastal small-scale fisheries.