Wild Caught Local Fish

A Quick Guide to Wild Caught Local Fish

Fish is an important dietary source of most of the major nutrients (including quality animal proteins, polyunsaturated fatty acids and micronutrients) except carbohydrates. Fish, especially the small indigenous fishes (SIFs) (those growing to a maximum size of about 25-30 cm on maturity) are rich in micronutrients. Micronutrients (minerals and vitamins) are needed in small amounts in the body; however, are essential for proper growth and development. Although, they are required in minuscule amounts unlike macronutrients, the consequences of their absence in food are severe and lead to various forms of deficiency diseases.

Shopping for fish at local markets in days gone by, one would see a diverse selection of local, wild- caught fish, fresh off the fisherman’s boat. The population was not as well off then, and the fish purchased were often the less expensive small fish, which were nevertheless very tasty and nutritious.

With increasing affluence, taste buds changed. It became fashionable to feast on fish fillets air-flown from afar. Various types of fish that are not indigenous to this part of the world are now a common sight at our supermarkets. Meanwhile, local fishermen have to grapple with a shrinking market on top of other issues like loss of fishing grounds due to encroaching development.

It is time to reclaim our food heritage, eat local, support our fishermen, and rediscover the treasures within our midst. Here is an introduction to some fish species that are wild-caught off the shores of Johor.