Food fish

Food Fish

A food fish refers to any fish species that is consumed by humans and other animals. The term is often applied to both marine and freshwater species that are caught or farmed for food.

Overview

Food fish are a primary source of protein and other essential nutrients for millions of people worldwide. They are also a significant part of the global economy, with the fishing industry and aquaculture contributing billions of dollars annually.

Types of Food Fish

There are thousands of species of food fish, ranging from small forage fish like sardines and anchovies, to larger predatory fish such as tuna and salmon.

Marine Food Fish

Marine food fish are those that live in the ocean. They include species like cod, haddock, and halibut, which are often caught in the wild, as well as species like sea bass and grouper, which are commonly farmed.

Freshwater Food Fish

Freshwater food fish are those that live in rivers, lakes, and ponds. They include species like trout, catfish, and tilapia, which can be either caught in the wild or farmed.

Fishing and Aquaculture

Fishing and aquaculture are the two main methods of obtaining food fish. Commercial fishing involves catching wild fish, while aquaculture involves farming fish in controlled environments.

Nutritional Value

Food fish are a rich source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals. They are also low in saturated fat.

Sustainability

The sustainability of food fish is a significant concern. Overfishing and environmental degradation threaten many species, leading to efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices and sustainable aquaculture.

See Also

• List of fish that are not food fish
• Fish as food
• Fish farming
• Fisheries management