First record of Scomber scombrus Linnaeus, 1758 from the central Atlantic coast of Morocco

The present study reports a new record of Atlantic mackerel Scomber scombrus Linnaeus, 1758, in the central Atlantic coast of Morocco. While this species is widely distributed on both sides of the North Atlantic, its occurrence in Moroccan waters has not been previously reported and only the species Scomber colias (Gmelin, 1789) has been reported from Atlantic coast of Morocco. In March 2018, 30 specimens of Scomber colias were sampled from the fishing port of Agadir Bay. Among them three individuals were identified as Scomber scombrus. Their otoliths were analysed for morphology and shape using a binocular microscope. The occurrence of S. scombrus in the area may indicate extension of its distribution to the central Atlantic coast of Morocco, possibily linked to spawning migration. This finding highlights the need for more focused research on this species in Moroccan waters.