[5] The California yellowtail can be recognized by its fusiform body plan, which tapers at both the anterior and posterior ends, a bulbous shaped head slightly swelled above the eye, and the visibly expanded posterior end of its jaw, which allows for its mouth to open large for its prey.

The pectoral fins on the California yellowtail are pointed, narrow, and long enough to provide steering while at high speed, but without adding too much drag.

The caudal fin, or tail, lies directly behind the second dorsal and is deep forked, with lobes of equal size and short length.

The shape of the yellowtail’s tail is ideal for its fast and long-distance travel swimming needs, as it is streamlined and propels the fish forward.

It runs above the pectoral fin and along the length of the body to the posterior end of the fish, consisting of 114 to 162 pored scales.

[21] Temperatures cooler than 18 °C would make the yellowtail sink into deeper waters to conserve energy.

They are aggregate broadcast spawners, meaning they reproduce by releasing their gametes into the water column.

The demand for California yellowtail is growing as a resource, being a desirable restaurant dish, pushing the need for aquaculture.

[24] Species of Seriola have been grown in aquaculture around the world for decades and will likely soon develop on the west coast of the United States.

[25] Quick maturity is ideal for aquaculture, as it allows rapid population growth since it doesn’t take long for individuals to reproduce.

[27] However, there is a large market for this pelagic fish with both white and red muscle, as it is sold for a high price in domestic restaurants.

[29] This fish is listed as "least concern" by the IUCN, on the basis that "significant global population declines have not been reported and are not suspected.