Atka mackerel
Pleurogrammus monopterygius

Where do Atka mackerel live?

Atka mackerel live in the North Pacific Ocean, from Japan to the Gulf of Alaska, and Bering Sea. In Alaska, they are most abundant in the Aleutian Islands region, particularly from Buldir Island to Seguam Pass. Atka mackerel form schools found along the outer continental shelf and upper slope region from 100 m to 300 m. They prefer rocky bottom habitats with a strong current.

What do Atka mackerel eat?

Adult Atka mackerel consume a variety of prey but mostly zooplankton and small shrimp.

How do Atka mackerel reproduce?

Females become reproductively mature at about 4 years old. In early June, males (with bright yellow spawning colors) begin to cluster and set up territories in rocky areas that will be their nesting sites (video of nesting site). Female Atka mackerel will visit these sites from July through October and spawn batches of eggs that stick onto the rocks. Males will guard their nests until December when the eggs hatch.