Grim outlook for bluefin tuna

The current population of bluefin tuna is estimated just 2.6 per cent of its "unfished" size in the north Pacific Ocean, a draft summary of a report says.

The latest scientific assessment paints a bleak future for the Pacific bluefin tuna, a sushi lovers' favourite whose population has dropped by more than 97 per cent from its historic levels.

A draft summary of a report by the International Scientific Committee for Tuna and Tuna-like Species in the North Pacific Ocean seen by The Associated Press shows the current population of bluefin tuna is estimated at 2.6 per cent of its "unfished" size.

A previous assessment put the population at an already dire 4.2 per cent.

The report says overfishing has continued despite calls to reduce catches to allow the species to recover.

In some areas, bluefin tuna is harvested at triple the levels considered to be sustainable.