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What are Amberjack Fish? How to Distinguish Amberjack from Barramundi? Where to Buy and How Much Does it Cost?

Are you struggling to distinguish between the Hố and Hô fish? Want to know where to buy Hố fish and how much it costs? Well, you're in luck! Stay tuned as we take a deep dive into the world of these fascinating fish.

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13 July, 2024

Mackerel scad, also known as mackerel, is a nutrient-rich fish that is popular in many countries around the world. It is also an economically important fish that is exported to many countries.

Join us today as we explore some interesting facts about this fascinating fish!

1What is Mackerel Scad?

Mackerel scad is a species of fish that belongs to the Scombridae family, which are typically pelagic, predatory fish. They are found in almost all tropical and temperate oceans and seas worldwide. In Vietnam, they are commonly found in the central region, from Quang Binh to Quy Nhon and Quang Ngai, and are known by various names such as ca dau rong or ca keo ngua.

Mackerel scad have a distinctive body shape with a long, slender, and laterally compressed body that can grow up to 90 cm in length. Their body is scaleless and smooth, resembling that of an eel, with a pointed, protruded mouth and a full set of teeth.

What is Mackerel Scad?

This fish is highly valued for its economic and nutritional benefits, which has encouraged local fishermen to continue their trade. Mackerel scad is currently exported to several countries, including Japan, South Korea, and China.

Mackerel scad can grow to impressive sizes, reaching lengths of over 2 meters and weighing up to 5 kilograms. They are known to have a long lifespan of over 15 years. The popularity of mackerel scad can be attributed to its high nutritional value, including:

– Omega-3 fatty acids: Essential for brain health, nerve development, and cognitive enhancement in both children and the elderly.

– High-quality protein: Helps maintain blood pH levels and boosts the body’s immune system.

– Low-calorie content: Supports weight management, muscle growth, and reduction of excess body fat.

– Vitamins and minerals: Rich in vitamins A and E, which promote healthy vision and skin, as well as prevent age-related degeneration.

2How to Distinguish Mackerel Scad from Hô Fish

Despite the similarity in their names, mackerel scad and hô fish are completely different species, and it is important to be able to tell them apart:

Hô Fish: This is the largest species in the Catfish family, but unlike mackerel scad, hô fish do not have barbels. They have large, broad heads and extremely wide mouths. Their scales are large, round, and a striking greenish-black color. The dorsal fin is positioned towards the back of the body, and the reddish fins have black edges. Hô fish are the largest fish found in the Mekong River, with lengths reaching up to 3 meters and weights of up to 600 kilograms.

Distinguishing Mackerel Scad from Hô Fish

Mackerel Scad: These fish have long, laterally compressed bodies with scaleless, smooth skin. Their heads taper to a point, and they have short pectoral fins with no pelvic fins and a small caudal fin. Their body color is a bluish-silver, similar to steel with a hint of silver, and their bellies and fins are a darker shade of blue. When mackerel scad die, their color fades to grayish-silver.

As you can see, there are significant differences in the physical appearance of mackerel scad and hô fish, making it relatively easy to distinguish between the two species.

3Where to Buy Mackerel Scad and Price

Fresh mackerel scad is readily available and can be easily purchased from local markets and supermarkets.

Where to Buy and Price

Suggested Places to Buy:

– Hieu Hai San: 62 Nguyen Hong, Ward 11, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City

– Dai Hai San: 16A Co Giang, Cau Ong Lanh Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

– Dao Hai San: 469 Nguyen Huu Tho, Tan Hung Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City

Price: Approximately 160,000 VND per kilogram

We hope that this article has provided you with valuable insights and inspired you to include this delicious and nutritious fish in your meals!

Frequently asked questions

Amberjack is a species of ray-finned fish in the Carangidae family, commonly found in the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans. They are silvery-grey in color with a slight yellow or amber tint, and have a robust, elongated body. Barramundi, on the other hand, are a different species of fish found in tropical and subtropical regions. They are characterized by their silvery scales, a long, thin body, and a distinctive large mouth with a protruding lower jaw.

The key distinguishing features of Amberjack fish are their robust, elongated body shape, and their silvery-grey color with a yellow or amber tint. They also have a distinctive lateral line that runs along the length of their body, and their fins are typically a darker shade of grey or black.

You can typically find Amberjack fish for sale at specialty seafood markets or high-end grocery stores. The price can vary depending on the season and availability, but generally, they range from $15 to $25 per pound.

Yes, Amberjack fish are a good source of high-quality protein and contain various essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, selenium, and potassium. Consuming Amberjack fish as part of a balanced diet can contribute to improved heart health, enhanced cognitive function, and healthy skin and hair.

Amberjack fish is a versatile seafood option and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Common cooking methods include grilling, baking, searing, or steaming. It has a mild flavor and a firm texture, making it suitable for a range of recipes such as fish tacos, grilled Amberjack steaks, or even Amberjack fish curry.