What morphological feature helps distinguish *T. albacares* from a Skipjack (*Katsuwonus pelamis*) for regulatory use?

Answer

The presence of a dark lateral line and distinctive yellow fins.

For regulatory and management purposes, authorities rely on specific, visually identifiable physical characteristics to differentiate species. The text specifies that the features helping distinguish *Thunnus albacares* from the related Skipjack (*Katsuwonus pelamis*) include the presence of a dark lateral line along its side and the bright, brilliant yellow coloration of its fins and finlets. While the classification details (Genus *Thunnus*) and physiological traits (warm-bodied) are crucial for understanding its ecology, the visible morphological details are what facilitate practical identification in fisheries management contexts.

What morphological feature helps distinguish *T. albacares* from a Skipjack (*Katsuwonus pelamis*) for regulatory use?
taxonomyTunafishyellowfin