Atlantic mackerel
Mackerel, also called xarda, sarda, verdel, verta or macarela, is a saltwater blue fish, being one of the most economical fish and rich in omega 3 acids.
It has an elongated body, white on the belly and with dark blue and black vertical stripes on the back. It usually measures between 25 to 45cm and can reach 4.5 kg. of weight.
It usually feeds on plankton, fish eggs and small crustaceans.
It is a gregarious fish that undertakes long migrations, although in spring they return to warmer waters. Once they have spawned, the large schools of mackerel divide into smaller groups to go out in search of food. In winter they usually stay at about 170 m. deep without feeding.
