Yellowtail kingfish

Yellowtail Kingfish (also called Yellowtail Amberjack or simply Kingfish) is a fast-growing, predatory marine species highly valued in the premium seafood market. Native to temperate and subtropical waters of the Southern Hemisphere (e.g., Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Chile), it is known for its firm texture, rich flavor, and suitability for sashimi and high-end cuisine.

Yellowtail is increasingly farmed in offshore cages and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), particularly in Australia and the Mediterranean.

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Learn more about Yellowtail Kingfish

All feed formulas developed by Aller Aqua at the Aller Aqua Research Centre follow these requirements to ensure proper growth and health:

  • Protein Needs:

Juveniles: 48–52% crude protein

Grow-out stage: 42–48% crude protein

  • Fat and Energy Needs:

Fat: 14–20% (high to meet energy needs)

Digestible energy: ~20–22 MJ/kg
The species benefits from diets rich in marine fish oil, which supports growth and maintains high-quality fillet composition.

  • Essential Nutrients:

Amino acids: Methionine, lysine, taurine (often supplemented)

Vitamins: A, C, D3, E, and B-complex

Minerals: Calcium, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, iron

Omega-3 fatty acids: Important for flesh quality and consumer health value

  • Feed Composition:
    Traditionally fishmeal and fish oil-based, though sustainable feeds now include plant protein concentrates, algae-derived DHA, and processed animal proteins.

The range of solutions developed by Aller Aqua is suitable for each stage of the fish lifecycle as well as the following farming methods:

  • Culture Systems:

Sea cages (offshore and nearshore): Most common method, especially in Australia and New Zealand

Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS): Used in areas with biosecurity or environmental constraints (e.g., Middle East, Mediterranean)

  • Environmental Conditions:

Temperature: 18–24°C optimal

Salinity: Full marine salinity (~30–35 ppt)

Oxygen: Requires high dissolved oxygen (>6 mg/L) for optimal growth and welfare

  • Stocking Density:

Moderate to high densities (~10–30 kg/m³), adjusted to cage size and water flow

  • Feeding Practices:

Fish are fed high-energy extruded pellets 2–3 times per day

Feeding rates depend on biomass, temperature, and water quality

Automated feeders and underwater cameras are often used to monitor feeding efficiency

  • Growth & Harvest:

Reaches market size (~3–5 kg) in 12–18 months, with some individuals exceeding 10 kg in optimal conditions

A carefully selected composition of raw materials and verified feed formulas ensure that the fish is rich in minerals and vitamins, and at the same time that the texture of meat is of the highest quality. We make sure that fish grown using solutions provided by Aller Aqua offer the following benefits:

  • Nutritional Value: Yellowtail kingfish is a nutrient-dense seafood, offering:

High-quality lean protein

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA)

Source of vitamin D, selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12

  • Culinary Appeal: Highly sought after for sashimi, sushi, grilling, smoking, and pan-searing. Its firm, buttery texture and mild yet rich flavor make it ideal for gourmet dishes.

Farmed yellowtail are raised under controlled, biosecure conditions, with regular monitoring for diseases and contaminants. Commercial farms often follow GlobalG.A.P, ASC, or BAP standards. Yellowtail aquaculture can be highly efficient, with feed conversion ratios (FCRs) around 1.6–2.0. Improvements in alternative protein sources and waste management are enhancing the sustainability of production.